After a few years of smaller batches (5 to 25 gallons) of wines, will be
moving up to some larger crushes this year - 30+ gallons. Am interested in
moving to oak barrels this year or next, but have some concerns - and would
apprecaite any experience you can share.

* Size. Have read often "small barrels leak too much". Have been considering
30 gallon barrels. Any experience with this size barrel? Leak probelms?
* Age of oak. I tend to prefer very subtly oaked wine - not a fan of the
'oaky' styles. Am concerned with the potential to 'over-oak' with new oak
barrels. Any suggestions on soak treatments with new barrels to soften the
character?

Veraison here in the vineyard - vines are netted, and getting jazzed up for
the new season!