ron1guz

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How important is temperature control when barrel aginng a beer? My garage fluctuates between 40-50 in the winter and 65-70 in the summer. Is this OK?

Bob

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I presume you lack a basement, or place with a consistent cool temperature?

I think 70*F is too warm. You'll have far better results at "cellar temperature", i.e. a constant 50-55*F for the entire aging period.

Cheers,

Bob

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Catfish

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I have not done any barrel work. All of my ideas come from reading. That being said, it is my understanding that:

The temperature fluctuations encourage the beer to move in and out of the wood of the barrel. Of course this increases the exposure to wood and wood flavor in the beer. There is more concern with extreme daily changes than with annual changes.
You should read the Wild Brews book, if you haven't already.
Good luck!!

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鯰 a.k.a. なまず a.k.a. Catfish