WHAT IS A COOPER?

What Coopers Do

• Select and shape staves (the individual curved pieces of wood)
• Assemble barrels without using glue or nails—tightness comes from precision joinery and steel hoops
• Toast or char barrels to specific levels (important for wine and whiskey flavor development)
• Repair damaged barrels to extend their lifespan
• Work primarily with oak, especially in winemaking, because of its strength and flavor contributions

In Winemaking

Coopers are essential because:

• Oak adds flavors like vanilla, spice, caramel, and toast.
• Barrels influence tannin structure, mouthfeel, and aging potential.
• Different toast levels and oak origins (French, American, Hungarian) create distinctive styles.