How do Chilean winemakers incorporate oak aging into their wines?

In Chile, wine aging of the oak is dominant; therefore, a great deal of the 'oaky' character is typically added to wines by the winemakers which further add to the complexity of wine character. The US wineries frequently prefer French and American oak barrels of the same shape for aging. The former give extra tannins while the latter vanillin attributes. Oak French allows for an orchid of vanilla and spice garnish, while oak American provides a touch tone effect of coconut and caramel. A matching material choice with a carefully predetermined duration for aging is in order to augment the varietal character of the wine and result in a pleasing structure and balance.