Hi,
Relatively new to winemaking and wonder why first racking is
recommended for carboys before going to oak? I have a neutral 20
gallon barrel from repeated uses (from another winemaker).. I have a
cab franc that is ready to be pressed (MLF appears to be near
completion) and wonder why can't I skip the carboys and go directly to
the barrel with a couple carboys for topping off; I'd re-rack after a
couple of months and use oak chips in successive rackings. What
problems do you see with this idea?

I have another 35 gallons that I was considering racking directly to
a brand new 30 gallon barrel but again what are the risks? Thanks.
john