Storage

The way by which one stores Port Wine will have a fundamental effect on the changes that occur to the wine and to its composition. Hence, the type and capacity of the containers must be adapted to the evolution that one wishes for the wine. Port Wine is usually stored in typical Douro casks called pipes, in large casks (25,000 to 35,000 litres) or in vats (550,000 to 750,000 litres).


 

The storage capacity in wood represents more than two thirds the total storage capacity. The wood that is most often used is Portuguese oak although chestnut and other exotic woods have also been used. The large cylindrical vats in stainless steel and lined concrete are present approximately 10% of the total capacity and are only used for the temporary storage of wines.