You have now been subscribed to Barrel Facts. Whiskey barrels are really expensive and the method to make certain types is passed down through generations. The tightness of the barrel and the type of wood are both considered as the wood will expand a bit from absorption of its contents. An amount of whiskey loss is accepted from evaporation of the contents through the porous wood of the barrel. A considerable expertise is necessary to create quality barrels. [1][2][3]
Each type of wood is used for aging different spirits. Oak is most common in whiskey and wine making. Sometimes the barrels are even smoked near a fire to impart a unique flavor into the alcohol that will be held in the barrel. A used barrel is very desirable and can go for higher prices on the open market than even a quality new barrel. This price parity is due to the unique flavor that can be impacted by using a used wine barrel for whiskey, used whiskey barrel for wine, or some other unique alternation of barrel contents.
Barrels that are hundreds of years old, and thick with aged bacteria are used for making traditional Japanese soy sauce. These special family heirloom barrels will be used for many generations before they are eventually retired. [4]
