How does oak aging impact the flavor profile of Zinfandel wines?

As compared to the other, there are many Zinfandel wines that are oak aged, which can really change their taste and also structure. The oak barrels impart an aroma of vanilla, spices, and also caramel, along with delicate hints of toast and smoke, the later two only enhancing the wine's fruity components. Oak aging also enhances the tannins by providing a more complete and potent taste and an increased complexity. While too much oak influence can mask the fruit, in the wine, the vintners must carefully frame a wine with a balance of oak character for a successful final product.