When I first wrote about wine 10 years ago this week, I wanted to make a point. A lot of different labels often get applied to wine. It’s elitist. It’s arrogant. It’s foreign or feminine or a whole ...

For centuries, oak has been the winemaker’s and distiller’s collaborator, quietly transforming clear spirits and young wines into something worth savoring. Here’s how the magic unfolds.

When used thoughtfully, oak can help reveal unexpected and delicious flavors. Brian Freedman is a wine, spirits, travel, and food writer; event host and speaker; and drinks educator. He regularly ...

Vanilla bean, cedar, bacon, chocolate? Many of the tasting notes on acclaimed red wines refer more to the oak barrel wood than to the grape. Quiz question: What grape delivers wine aromas described as ...