Explore Our FAQ!
General Information
What are oak alternatives?
Oak alternatives replicate the effects of traditional oak barrels but offer a faster and more controlled aging process. These alternatives are available in different types of oak and toast levels, allowing for customization of flavor profiles without the cost and space of large oak barrels.
How do oak alternatives work?
Oak alternatives release compounds like tannins and flavors into the liquid, mimicking the aging effects of barrels. The smaller surface area of products like chips and cubes results in quicker flavor extraction, making them ideal for faster aging compared to traditional barrels.
What benefits do oak alternatives provide?
ak alternatives offer a quicker aging process, allowing for faster flavor infusion than traditional barrels. They are more affordable and require less maintenance while still delivering consistent, high-quality results. The variety of oak types and toast levels gives you the flexibility to fine-tune the flavors of your wine, making them a cost-effective and customizable solution for aging.
What types of oak alternatives are available?
We currently offer a wide selection of oak alternatives, ranging from oak chips, cubes, tank staves, barrel inserts, segments, and more! For a complete list of our offerings, please visit our shop.
How do I get started?
To get started, choose the oak alternative that suits your beverage and desired flavor profile. We offer easy-to-follow instructions for using oak alternatives. Simply add the product to your wine and let the oak work its magic, adjusting the aging time to suit your taste preferences.
What can oak alternatives be used for?
Oak alternatives are ideal for enhancing wines, but can also be used for spirits like whiskey and rum, beers, ciders and more! They improve flavor complexity and mouthfeel, making them a versatile tool for a wide range of beverage-making applications.
Product Information
How do I know what of oak alternative to use?
The choice of oak alternative depends on your flavor and aging goals. Oak chips are best for quicker flavor extraction, while cubes and staves are ideal for longer aging processes. For more help, please call 740-947-4159.
Do you offer French or American oak?
Yes. We offer both French and American oak. Additionally, we offer speciality types of wood such as Cherry and Maple.
Are your oak alternatives organic and allergen-free?
Yes. All of our oak alternatives are organic and allergen-free. For a complete list of allergy information and to view our organic declaration, please visit our resources page.
What different toast levels can I get oak alternatives in?
We currently offer untoasted, light, medium, medium-plus, and heavy toast levels in all of our products. Additionally, we offer charbon toast level in our Oak Cubes and Oak Segment products.
Do different toast levels provide different flavors?
They do! Each toast level provides a different flavor and smell when combined with your wine. For more detailed information on each toast level and the flavors they each produce, we recommend visiting our resources page and exploring our product technical sheets.
Ordering and Shipping
How do I place an order?
You can place an order directly through our website by browsing our selection of oak alternatives, adding your items to the cart, and completing the checkout process. Shop now by clicking this link.
Can I request a sample of your products?
Yes, you may request a free sample of our products. Currently, we limit our samples to one per person. Email [email protected] for more information or to request a sample.
How long will it take my order to arrive?
The time it takes for your order to arrive depends on processing and shipping times. We garuanntee all orders placed before 12:00 PM EST to be shipped same day. We currently offer 5-7 day, 3-5 day, 2 day, and same-day shipping options.
Do you offer local pickup options?
We do offer local pickup options if you are located within 30 miles of our warehouse. To request local pickup on your order, please call 740-947-4159 and a reprentative will help you place your order.
What do I do if I want to order a pallet?
If you would like to order a pallet, please fill out our contact form and select “I want to order a pallet” under the reasons for contacting us. You can also email [email protected] or call 740-947-4159 for assistance in ordering pallets.
What packaging do you use to ship orders?
We currently use plastic mailers for our 1.5 oz sample packs and regular cardboard packaging for anything larger. For larger orders, we include bubble inserts for added shipment protection. All of our packaging is environmental friendly and produced with sustainable sources.
What if my order does not arrive?
If your order does not arrive, please contact us directly at 740-947-4159. We will work with you to determine where your order is, why it did not arrive, and assist to get your order to you or provide a refund/replacement.
What if my order is damaged upon arrival?
If your order is damaged upon arrival, please reach out to us directly by calling 740-947-4159. We will work with you to provide a refund/replacement for your order.
Returns and Exchanges
Can I return my order?
You may return your order under certain conditions. These conditions can be found, alongside other information, on our Returns Policy page.
How do I return an order?
If conditions are met, you can return an order by mailing it back to our postal address. Our postal address is as following:
Oak Chips Inc.
9329 State Route 220
Waverly, OH
45690
Please note that customers are responsible for return mailing costs.
Can I exchange a product?
Currently, we only accept exchanges for products that are still in their original packaging and have not been opened. Customers are required to provide proof of purchase, and all exchange requests are subject to the sole discretion of Oak Chips Inc.
Product Usage
How do I know how much product to use in my wine?
We are glad you asked! A dosage chart is included with every order and explains how much product to use in various situations. If you cannot find your dosage chart, no worries! Visit our resources page, where we have a digital copy of the dosage chart for your viewing pleasure.
Can you assist in providing information to help use your product in wine?
You can visit our resources page to find a number of helpful resources such as specification sheets, dosage charts, and other helpful documents. If those are not what you are looking for, please call 740-947-4159 and we will connect you with one of our experts to help you make your wine great!
What is the recommended dosage for each oak alternative?
The recommended dosage for each oak alternative can be found on the dosage chart that is included in every order. Our dosage chart can also be found digitally on our resources page.
When is the best time to add oak alternatives to wine?
The best time to add your oak alternatives depends on which type of alternative you are using and the stage of aging you are in. For more detailed information, please refer to our techinical data sheets which are located on our resources page.
Do I need to soak the oak alternatives before using?
Currently, we do not advise our customers to soak their alternatives before using. However, soaking alternatives before using them for aging is perfectly fine and really comes down to personal preference.
How long do I leave the oak alternatives in my wine?
The length of time that you should leave oak alternatives in your wine comes down to personal preference. Oak chips typically stay in the wine for 1-2 weeks, while cubes or staves may stay for 2-4 weeks, depending on your desired flavor.
Are the oak alternatives resuable?
Yes, oak alternatives can often be reused after drying, though the intensity of flavor may decrease with each use.
About Our Company
What is Oak Chips Inc.?
Oak Chips Inc. is a family-owned business that was founded with the mission of providing high-quality oak alternatives that help provide bold flavors, strong aromas, and full mouthfeels to your favorite wines.
What does Oak Chips Inc. do?
Oak Chips Inc. is leading the industry in providing multiple types of premium oak alternatives that help winemakers enhance their wine with increased flavors and aromas.
When was Oak Chips Inc. founded?
Oak Chips Inc. was founded in 1975 by Ben Nathan. Since its founding, Ben has passed the business down to his two sons, company President Todd Nathan and company Vice President Jake Nathan.
Where is Oak Chips Inc. located?
Our warehouse is located at 9329 State Route 220 in Waverly, Ohio 45690. Stop by and give us a visit if you are in the area!
What are Oak Chips Inc. business hours?
Oak Chips Inc. is currently open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST, Monday through Friday. Business hours may vary depending on holidays.
When is Oak Chips Inc. closed?
Oak Chips Inc. is currently closed every Saturday and Sunday and on select holidays throughout the year. Please check our Google Business Profile for the most up-to-date information regarding holiday hours.