The 2024 PaceDocs film is an exploration of the art of cask making, also known as cooperage, which has a rich history that can be traced back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of wooden containers used for storing and transporting liquids found in archaeological sites dating as far back as 2690 BCE in Egypt. The type of cask and the type of wood used in winemaking can significantly influence the taste, aroma, and characteristics of wine in Spain, as in other winemaking regions around the world.

The wines in the Montilla-Moriles region have been widely known for centuries. The wine region goes as far back as the 1st century, becoming one of the oldest wines in the Andalucia region.

In this documentary, produced by Dr. Maria Luskay, Professor Lou Guarneri, and Pace University’s documentary film team, PaceDocs filmmakers spoke with coopers and winemakers who have dedicated their lives to this tradition.

In the process, they learned about the very important job of the toneleria—the cooper—and how their hands contribute to the craft of barrel making, with the soul of the cask at the essence of taste and craftsmanship in wine and spirits’ seasoning.

Please join us after the screening for a panel discussion with the student filmmakers