Oak contains vanillins and wood sugars. French oak tends to taste a little bit more spiced and American oak tends to be a bit more sweet.
When making my apple mead, I always add French oak while maturing, and it makes a huge difference in taste. I add it mostly for the tannins though (the bitter part of tea), which gives it more “chew” (like the difference between white and red wine).
Oak contains vanillins and wood sugars. French oak tends to taste a little bit more spiced and American oak tends to be a bit more sweet.
When making my apple mead, I always add French oak while maturing, and it makes a huge difference in taste. I add it mostly for the tannins though (the bitter part of tea), which gives it more “chew” (like the difference between white and red wine).