GCGBrewing
Well-Known Member
I bought a small (8-10g?) barrel about 3-4 years ago. I haven't had a chance to put any beer in it, so the only thing that has ever been in it is Whiskey. I am finally at a point where I am able to brew something to put in it, but found an issue today while looking it over.
On the bottom, there is a small gap in between 2 of the staves. Anything put into the barrel would quickly leak out and create a mess! You can see the sliver of light that is visible when looking through the bung hole (see 1st pic below).
I have read about putting 180F water into the barrel to get the wood to swell and fix any leaks, but would it swell enough to fix this gap? Would I be better served using the barrel in pieces to get the flavor contributions?
There are no off smells inside, just a subtle smell of bourbon whiskey. Its also bone dry inside. Thanks!
On the bottom, there is a small gap in between 2 of the staves. Anything put into the barrel would quickly leak out and create a mess! You can see the sliver of light that is visible when looking through the bung hole (see 1st pic below).
I have read about putting 180F water into the barrel to get the wood to swell and fix any leaks, but would it swell enough to fix this gap? Would I be better served using the barrel in pieces to get the flavor contributions?
There are no off smells inside, just a subtle smell of bourbon whiskey. Its also bone dry inside. Thanks!