Generations of Forest Conservation
The Allary cooperage uses only first quality clear staves from well managed ONF forests. Office of National Forest involved in the sustainable management of the public French forests.
The Life Cycle of the Oak Forest
GerminationSeedlings germinate from acorns produce by mature trees prior to harvest.
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Gaulis (thin stick)Over the next 15-30 years seedlings turn into young trees, the forest crew selects healthy ones and clears space so they may grow. Density is very high.
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PerchesAt this stage trees are 40-60 years old and up ot 100’ high, yet the diameter is still quite small.
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Young FutaieThe oak is around 100 years old, the trees have reached their adult height and now only grow in diameter. More clearing takes place to give these trees additional space.
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High FutaieThe oak is now around 200 years old and growth has slowed. What started as 4000 seedlings per acre now has 40-60 trees per acre remaining.
Most trees are harvested before they stop producing acorns. This is the first harvest. |
Semencier (producer of seeds)After High Futaie is harvested a small number of the best oak is kept, these trees are typically 220-250 years old and selected for their ability to produce acorns.
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Read "The Art of a French Cooperage", in Artisian Spirit magazine, about how our barrels use only the finest and sustainable Oak in the world.
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