ATPGroup Brewing Catalog 2021-2022 - Catalog - Page 18
OAK ALTERNATIVES
T
he use of oak alternatives is a cost-effective method of imparting oak-aged characteristics to beer instead of
investing in oak cooperage. Using oak inside of stainless steel tanks or barrels reduces the chance of oxidation
and lowers the potential for wild yeast or bacterial infections. When adding into wood cooperage the oak alternative
can “refresh” or extend the life of the barrel’s ability to impart the wood flavor attribute of the chosen wood. Optimal
flavor extraction is dependent upon surface area and contact time. Depending upon what size particle is chosen,
full flavor and aroma is extracted in 3–5 days. Bench trials to optimize addition rates are strongly recommended.
SURFACE AREA PER GRAM
TIME NEEDED FOR FLAVOR EXTRACTION
Least --------------------------- Most
Least -------------------------- Most
Block < Chips < Shavings < Powder
Powder < Shavings < Chips
