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barrel question

Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2012 6:19 am
by JonB
I have a barrel previously used for a few batches of whisky, that I would like to reuse. My thought was to rechar the inside. However while disassembling the barrel I noticed that the ends (heads) were raw oak. Aren't the heads usually toasted as well?. I'd like to try to age some bourbon in these.

Re: barrel question

Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2012 6:51 am
by MuleKicker
Dont look like they are. check this out

Re: barrel question

Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2012 9:11 am
by Dnderhead
most of the heads are "glued" with beeswax so if you try to toast they will fall apart also can warp.
you want the warp on the staves that is how their bent but not the heads.

Re: barrel question

Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2012 3:07 pm
by JonB
Interesting. I wonder then in a nice long soak in 120 proof would be useful to leach out the tannins and allow for cleaner aging. Even a soak in port or sherry like.they do with scotch perhaps.

Re: barrel question

Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2012 3:31 pm
by Dnderhead
how the barrel is treated depends on what your putting in it.
bourbon chard new barrel,scotch used wine or reconditioned,rum well used barrels.