The Nobility of the Barrel (French edition) by Gilles Bousquet, Roland Bugada, Frédéric Gillet & André Valognes

The Barrel, an essential symbol of the wine world, is much more than just a container: it is the wine's ally in its making. The Nobility of the Barrel, written by Gilles Bousquet, Roland Bugada, Frédéric Gillet, and André Valognes, takes us to the heart of this fascinating universe. The authors, including an experienced cooper, unveil the secrets of this ancestral art.

A Journey into Craftsmanship

The book explores the artisanal crafting of the barrel, from the careful selection of woods, often oak, to the techniques of assembly and transportation. Readers discover how the barrel, particularly the 228-liter barrel, allows wines, but also whiskies, to mature slowly thanks to the unique interaction between the wood and the fruit's aromas.

A Millennial Heritage

Originating from the Etruscans, the Celts, or the Raetians, the barrel has become a pillar of wine aging. The book highlights this unique alchemy between the staves and the content, enhancing the greatest wines intended for the fine tables worldwide.

A Wealth of Information

Brimming with details, this book reveals the manufacturing steps and specific terms of the trade, such as staves, the croze, or toasting. Each chapter is enriched with ancient documents, immersing the reader in a world of forests, cellars, and craftsmanship.

History and Anecdotes

The book goes beyond mere technique, exploring unusual uses of the barrel, such as preserving archives during wars, or its role in Belgian beer cellars. Each page is an invitation to journey through history, geography, and symbolism.

Awards and Recognition

Awarded prestigious honors such as the Prix Vergnette de Lamotte 2019 from the CBEH in Beaune and a distinction from the International Organization of Vine and Wine, this book is an essential reference for wine professionals, wood experts, and lovers of Burgundian culture.

Article Features

• Title: The Nobility of the Barrel
• Authors: Gilles Bousquet, Roland Bugada, Frédéric Gillet & André Valognes
• ISBN: 978-2-918299-73-8
• EAN: 9782918299769
• Publication: December 2019
• Format: 24.5 × 32 cm
• Pages: 640
• Regional and International Awards: Prix Vergnette de Lamotte, International Organization of Vine and Wine