The families that work together to bring you the high quality barrels we supply take pride in the meticulous craftsmanship behind every European oak barrel that’s produced. Below is an overview of the steps involved in transforming raw European oak into barrels of exceptional quality.
Harvesting Premium Oak:
European oak trees aged between 80-120 years are carefully selected and harvested. These trees are chosen for their superior grain and structural integrity, ensuring the highest quality barrels. Logs are cut into appropriate lengths and rigorously inspected for consistency and tightness of grain.
Splitting and Preparing Staves
The logs are split along their natural grain to create stave blanks, preserving strength and ensuring watertight performance. These blanks are then rough-cut to size and prepared for seasoning.
Natural Seasoning
Staves are stacked and air-dried in open seasoning yards for 12 to 36 months. This natural aging process reduces moisture content, removes harsh tannins, and enhances the wood’s ability to impart refined flavour profiles.
Precision Shaping of Staves
Once seasoned, the staves are shaped with precision, planed, and tapered to fit seamlessly together. They are bevelled and curved to create the signature cylindrical form of the barrel.
Barrel Assembly (Hooping)
The staves are skillfully assembled within a temporary iron hoop, forming the basic barrel structure. Heat or steam is then applied to make the wood pliable, allowing it to be gently bent into its iconic shape.
Toasting
The interior of the barrel is toasted over an open flame. This critical step caramelizes the natural sugars in the oak, unlocking complex aromas and flavours that enhance the wine or spirits aged within.
Crafting and Fitting the Heads
The barrel heads, crafted from seasoned oak planks, are precisely joined using tongue-and-groove techniques. These heads are securely inserted into grooves at each end of the barrel.
Securing with Permanent Hoops
Durable metal hoops are applied to replace the temporary hoops, holding the staves and heads firmly in place and ensuring long-lasting structural integrity.
Finishing and Quality Assurance
Each barrel is sanded and polished to perfection. It undergoes thorough testing, including filling with water or steam, to ensure it is completely watertight and free of defects.
By combining time honoured traditions with expert craftsmanship, we bring you barrels that complement and elevate the artistry of winemaking and distillation.
Milo Jankovic
Owner/Director
Barrel Deals Direct
