Proud papa of a new (used) oak barrel. :-)

[Jimbo]

I just received this 5 gallon barrel in the mail from Brewstock. $94 delivered. It was used once by Balcones in Texas for a blue corn whiskey, and from markings on the barrel and research into Balcones, its a medium char and was aged only 9 months in here (?). Staves seemed tight and it came bunged and smelling sweet and rich of fresh whiskey so I didnt bother to rinse the goodness out with water checking for leaks. I poured a quart of my brandy in and rolled it around for a while. No wet seams anywhere, so proceeded to put the 3 gallons of brandy in I distilled so far, 102 proof. I have 22 gallons more cider to run, that will fill this baby and leave me toppings to keep it full. Im a happy camper. Hope the corn whiskey didnt steal all the goodies outta the oak Cheers.

[WalkingWolf]

Hope the corn whiskey didnt steal all the goodies outta the oak Cheers.

I'd venture to say it'll age out a really nice product. I'd like to think the first whiskey through just took out the harshness of the wood allowing a slower aging this time around. Looking forward to your results.