Demi-muid

Demi-muid meaning in wine barrels

A demi-muid is a traditional French oak wine barrel that usually holds 600 liters (about 159 gallons). It is larger than a standard barrique (about 225 liters), so it gives wine a gentler, slower oak influence.

The name means “half-muid,” referring to the older French muid measure. Winemakers use demi-muids when they want oxygen exchange and oak structure without the stronger wood impact that can come from smaller barrels.

Demi-muids and demi-muid barrels

Demi-muids are the plural of demi-muid. A demi-muid barrel typically holds 600 liters, compared with a standard barrique at about 225 liters. Because demi-muids are larger, the wine has less contact with oak per liter, so the oak influence is usually gentler and slower.