Wine barrels might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Montreal, but those seeking a unique piece of furniture for their home or a DIY project have a surprising number of options in the city! Let's break down the standard sizes of wine barrels and explore where you might find one to fit your needs.

The (Mostly) Universal Barrel

The good news is that wine barrel sizes are fairly standardized around the world. The most common type, used for both aging wine and repurposing into furniture, is known as a ""Bordeaux"" or ""Barrique."" These hold approximately:

Volume: 225 liters (about 59 gallons)
Height: Around 35 inches (91 cm)
Width (at the widest point): 27 inches (68cm)
Weight (empty): 100 lbs (45kg) approx.

Important Notes:

Slight Variations: Individual barrels can differ slightly based on the cooperage (barrel maker) and type of wood used.
Half-Barrel Hype: Many DIY projects utilize half-barrels, commonly used as planters.
Bigger and Smaller: While less common for home use, wineries do sometimes utilize barrels with smaller or larger capacities.

Sourcing Barrels in Montreal

Montreal, with its vibrant food and beverage scene, offers several avenues for finding your perfect barrel:

Go to the Source: Quebec has a growing wine industry! Search out local wineries, as they often have retired barrels for sale.

Online Marketplaces: Sites like Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace often have listings from both individuals and businesses selling used barrels.

Restaurant & Bar Suppliers: Companies that outfit restaurants may have leads on barrels, as they're popular decor elements.

The Brewery Connection: Montreal's craft beer scene is booming! Some breweries age beer in smaller barrels, and larger ones may be available when they outgrow them.

Questions to Ask Before You Buy

Previous Contents: Red wine barrels have those iconic stains, while white wine or spirits won't have the same visual impact.
Condition: Check for major damage, loose hoops, or excessive dryness, as this can lead to leaks.
Source: Barrels from local wineries add a unique Montreal touch to your project!

Barrel Transport Tips

Measure Twice, Haul Once: Make sure the barrel will fit in your vehicle before heading to pick it up.
Bring Backup: Even empty, barrels are heavy! Have a friend help you with the lifting.

Montreal-Inspired DIY Ideas

Habs Fan Haven: Paint your barrel in the iconic red, white, and blue of the Montreal Canadiens and use it as a side table for game nights.
Cafe Culture: Transform a barrel into a charming bistro table, perfect for your balcony with a croissant and espresso.
Botanical Beauty: A half-barrel overflowing with lush plants adds a touch of Parisian-inspired elegance to your space.

We Want to See Your Creations!

If you find the perfect barrel in Montreal and give it a new life, we want to celebrate your achievement! Tag us on social media and use the hashtag #MyMontrealBarrel.

Interested in shopping for wine barrel furniture? You can browse our full collection of items ranging from coffee tables to home bar and game sets here!

www.obarrel.com/collections