Hi,
I just ordered a new French oak barrel (small one, 4 gallon). I think I have read or heard that there will be too much oak flavour in a new and small barrel for longer time storage.
My plan is to use it for a Flanders Red, probably blending it before it goes to bottle.
I wonder if I should rinse it good a few times before use? Would it be a good idea to let the beer sit longer in another vessel before putting it in the barrel?
I understand that I have to taste it to know when it is "ready" but I would like to be able to store it for quite some time and then take some out, blend it and top the barrel up. Would there be any use in rinsing it with a little bit of wine in the end before use or is that just a waste?
What have you done or would you do?
Regards
I just ordered a new French oak barrel (small one, 4 gallon). I think I have read or heard that there will be too much oak flavour in a new and small barrel for longer time storage.
My plan is to use it for a Flanders Red, probably blending it before it goes to bottle.
I wonder if I should rinse it good a few times before use? Would it be a good idea to let the beer sit longer in another vessel before putting it in the barrel?
I understand that I have to taste it to know when it is "ready" but I would like to be able to store it for quite some time and then take some out, blend it and top the barrel up. Would there be any use in rinsing it with a little bit of wine in the end before use or is that just a waste?
What have you done or would you do?
Regards