Limousin [lee-moo-ZAN]

from

A forest in south-central France near the city of Limoges that produces oak used in barrels. Limousin oak is prized because it is loosely grained and therefore imparts a more obvious oak flavor and stronger TANNINS. There is some evidence, however, that the cooperage treatment may have as much to do with Limousin's esteemed reputation as the wood itself. Limousin barrels are quite popular for use in making COGNAC. They were once very popular with California winemakers, but many have shifted to the tighter-grained oak produced from the French forests of Allier, Nevers, Tronçais, and Vosges.