California furniture maker, Cliff Spencer, began using salvaged wine staves in his craftsman furniture designs a few years ago. The white oak staves, which are a component of the wine fermentation process, are placed in the steel vats used in the modern wine-making process (in lieu of oak barrels).

After imparting their oak flavor to the wine the staves are often discarded – unless someone like Spencer intervenes. Spencer uses the wine stained wood to make some stunning furniture creations.

The reclaimed oak staves arrive at Spencer’s shop coated with sugars and wine solids. All the wine aromas, except the slightest fragrance, are removed in the finishing process. Pinot Noir provides for the darkest, richest stain while the Pinot Grigio leaves the lightest. There is no other “stain” used in the furniture making process -  just the rich, natural tones of the vino.
Spencer uses non-toxic adhesives, recycled cores and plant-based finishes.

The perfect furniture choice for the oenophile in your life.

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