Odin's Cooperage Got Me Wondering About Baby Barrels

[Still Life]

I have two 3-liter and one 5-liter charred baby barrels that coincidentally harbor Odin's Cornflake whiskey.
Their first use (3 months) produced a remarkable product. And I'm aware the next batches will take longer due to char degradation.

I witness the Angel's Share and wonder where the breaking point is.

Each successive fill takes longer to age, but the Angels take more while waiting.
It's Winter now, so they're being kind (Barrels are outside)

But summer has me wondering if it'll all evaporate before done.

Is this why I don't see much discussion about baby barrels?
Not worth the trouble?

[srs787]

With the baby barrels the Angels will take 5 to 6% a month. I have two 3- liter, three 5-liter and a new 10-liter with its first filling about a month ago. I top off every week. The Angels take about one liter a month from the 5 barrels. Damn right a lot whisky going away. My 3-liter barrels are starting their 3rd year and color of the whisky is pale brown so I move the whisky to a gallon jug and add charred chips or sticks to get the color I want. srs

[Still Life]

I Keep reserves on heavy toast chips for refilling the barrels.
Feel sometimes I'm adding more color than receiving from the barrels.

But I'm sold on the breathing effect the barrels give. Even short 3 or 4 month's time really brings out an appreciable drink over just white dog.

Appreciate your input srs.

[srs787]

SL you are rite-on about the breathing effect the barrels give, so much better than leaving the spirit in a jar or jug with the lid loose.

[still_stirrin]

SL you are rite-on about the breathing effect the barrels give, so much better than leaving the spirit in a jar or jug with the lid loose.

+1.

So, even a used cask is still useful for reducing volatiles in your product. And with the small casks, this feature predominates the flavoring and coloring.

Use 'em if ya' got 'em.
ss