From Wineenthusiast · · 1m 30s
Cooperage Sales Drop as Wine Demand Falters
Wine barrel demand falls as coopers face shrinking market and succession challenges.
In brief
Wine barrel demand falls as coopers face shrinking market and succession challenges. European Coopers Ltd. and Tonnellerie Baron report reduced barrel production due to declining wine consumption and market shifts. Originally reported by Wineenthusiast.
Kristof Flodung's Early Passion
Kristof Flodung began his cooperage career as a young man, learning barrel-making from neighbors.
“The smell of oak hit me so hard that I can't forget it”
European Coopers Ltd. Production Decline
European Coopers Ltd. now produces half the barrels it did a decade ago, down from 4,000 annually in 2016.
Tonnellerie Baron's Barrel Output Drop
Tonnellerie Baron, a Cognac cooperage, reduced barrel production from 16,000 to 12,000 annually.
Barrel Demand Drivers
Wine consumption declines and fewer vineyards globally drive down barrel demand for the sixth year straight.
Wine Price Impact
Wines above $20 to 25 range aren't seeing a decline in barrel demand yet.
Coopers' Adaptation Challenges
Coopers face external pressures like economic crises, energy costs, and shifting wine trends.
Flodung's Stave Aging Standards
Flodung insists on minimum three years for stave aging due to Hungary's hot, dry climate.
Kreff's Market Shifts
Tonnellerie Baron's co-owner Kreff notes demand for more purity and less oak flavor in wines.
Succession Challenges
Coopers face succession hurdles with over $17 million tied up in raw materials and staves.
Diversification Options
Tonnellerie Baron uses 80% of barrels for wine and 20% for spirits, while Flodung sees limited whiskey market potential.
Cooperage's Future
Coopers emphasize patience and craftsmanship, noting that slow production is key to quality wine.
The one thing
European Coopers Ltd. and Tonnellerie Baron report reduced barrel production due to declining wine consumption and market shifts.
