These maturation sticks are made from 48-month air-seasoned American White Oak. This aging process allows the wood to develop a unique character that can significantly enhance the flavor profile. They are raw with no toast and no char, leaving you in full control of your desired flavor.
Each stick is approximately 1"x1"x4"
Toasting Instructions
Equipment and Materials Needed:
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Air-Seasoned 48-month Missouri American White Oak Maturation Sticks
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Oven or a controlled heating source capable of maintaining specific temperatures
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Thermometer (if your heat source does not have a precise temperature control)
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Timer
Steps:
- Preheat the Heating Source:
- Preheat your oven or heating source to the desired toasting temperature. The range typically used for toasting oak is between 350°F to 400°F (177°C to 204°C).
- Toasting:
- Place the oak block in the preheated oven or on the heating source.
- Toast the oak for about 30 minutes to an hour. The exact time can vary based on the intensity of flavors you wish to impart. A longer toasting time will result in deeper, more complex flavors.
- It's important to monitor the process closely, as over-toasting can lead to undesirable burnt or overly smoky flavors.
- Cooling Down:
- After toasting, remove the oak block and allow it to cool down completely. This cooling period lets the flavors in the wood settle and integrate.
- Using the Toasted Oak:
- Once cooled, the oak block is ready to be used for aging wine or beer.
- Submerge the block in your wine or beer aging container, ensuring it is fully immersed.
- The duration of aging with the oak block will depend on the desired oak influence in the beverage. Regular tasting is recommended to monitor the flavor development.
Tips:
- Experiment with Toasting Levels: Different toasting levels (light, medium, heavy) can impart varying flavors. Light toasting brings more coconut and vanilla notes, medium toasting adds caramel and spice, while heavy toasting offers robust flavors like chocolate and coffee.
- Safety First: Always be cautious when handling heated equipment and materials.
- Note on Flavor Profile: The type of oak and its seasoning play a significant role in the flavor profile. Missouri American White Oak is known for its tight grain and balanced flavors, suitable for both wine and beer.