Which wine style typically undergoes extended aging in oak barrels?

The style of wine that typically undergoes extended aging in oak barrels is red wines. This practice is commonly employed to enhance the wine's complexity and depth of flavor. Oak aging allows for the integration of distinct flavors from the wood, such as vanilla, spice, and toast, while also softening tannins and adding a creamier texture.

Red wines, particularly those made from varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, benefit significantly from this aging process. The interaction between the wine and the oak can contribute to a more nuanced aroma profile as well as enhance the wine's overall body and mouthfeel.

While other wine styles like white wines may also be aged in oak, the duration is usually shorter compared to the aging periods often seen with red wines. Sparkling wines typically undergo carbonation and fermentation in the bottle rather than being aged in oak, and rosé wines are rarely aged in wood as the focus is on freshness and fruitiness. Therefore, the practice of extended oak aging is most closely associated with red wines, making it the correct choice in this context.