SOP for used Wood Barrel

[mr.jay]

So, I have 2 used bourbon barrels. One of them had a beer in it already. I kept it sealed out back until I built a rack on wheels for them. I am ready to fill them. What do I do? My best guess: Fill with water 48 hours or so, drain, purge and fill. Also, what's the best way to rack the beer in and out? Anyone willing to share their wisdom?

[BrewinLou]

I would rehydrate them until they no longer leak. I would not put anything other than a sour in the beer used barrel. Purge your barrels... I use a pump with a vfd set on low rpm to empty them. I also blanket the barrel with co2 as I empty it.

[mr.jay]

Thanks. BTW, how long can a barrel sit dry (used) before it's trashed? These were outside (cold) for about 2 1/2 weeks. Didn't take the bung out until today. Smelled okay in there. Filled it with water. If it's not worth the risk at this point, I won't put the beer in there.

[liammckenna]

I remember someone cleaning wooden barrels with a product called 'barrel oxyfresh'. I have no idea what was in it, how clean it got the porous wood barrel, or how it worked.

Less than helpful, I know, but you may wish to google it.

Pax.

Liam

[BrewinLou]

As with everything it depends on variables. The environment being key. Out in direct sun or a very dry environment I have seen the rings fall of in less than five days. We generally only store ours empty for a few weeks at most. I am just happy I am so close to a good source of fresh barrels.

[theBrewMeister]

I use a product called Barolkleen. Soak in barrel for 3 days, hot water. Drain and flush 3 times with hot water, rinse with cold water, drain well, refill and enjoy!

Never had any contam issues and I've used my barrels up to 5 times.