What type of barrels are commonly used in Sherry aging?

The use of used American oak barrels is a hallmark of Sherry aging. These barrels, often previously utilized for aging bourbon or other spirits, impart subtle characteristics to the wine without overwhelming it with fresh oak flavors. As the barrels are reused several times, they allow the delicate notes of the Sherry to develop more prominently while maintaining a balance of flavors.

American oak is preferred in Sherry production for its ability to add hints of vanilla and caramel, enhancing the complexity of the wine. Moreover, the porous nature of these barrels aids in the necessary oxidative aging process, which is crucial in developing the unique profiles of different Sherry styles, such as Fino, Amontillado, and Oloroso.

The other choices do not align with typical Sherry aging practices. For instance, new French oak barrels are often used in wines such as Bordeaux or Burgundy but are not common in Sherry, as they can impart too much oak influence. Cement tanks and stainless steel tanks are more aligned with other wine-making practices where oxidation is not desired, as they are used primarily for preserving the fresh fruit characteristics in wine rather than for the oxidative aging that Sherry requires.