WSET Level 3 Wine Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Guide

Bordeaux red wine is typically matured in wooden vats or oak barriques. The use of oak plays a crucial role in developing the wine's flavor and complexity. The oak barrels impart various characteristics, such as vanilla, spice, and toasted notes, along with enabling slow oxygen exchange, which can soften tannins and contribute to the wine's overall structure and mouthfeel. This traditional maturation method is well-suited for Bordeaux reds, which often include grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that benefit from these aging practices.

In contrast, stainless steel tanks, while sometimes used for fermentation or aging white wines, do not impart the same flavor or texture as oak barrels. Glass containers are not practical for large-scale wine maturation, and ceramic jars are more commonly associated with specific regions and styles of wine, like those of ancient traditions, rather than the modern practices of Bordeaux winemaking. Therefore, the use of wooden vats or oak barriques distinctly characterizes the maturation process of Bordeaux red wines.