Sourcing the Perfect Barrel: Your Options

Direct from the Winery :
Pros: Access to barrels steeped in winemaking history, sometimes with desirable regional characteristics.
Cons: Often requires cleaning and refurbishing. Supply can be inconsistent, particularly for specific barrel sizes.
Best for: Those seeking a unique, hands-on experience and a connection to a specific wine region.

Cooperages:
Pros: Variety of sizes, oak types, and toast levels. Barrels often available in various conditions (new, used, refurbished).
Cons: Can be more expensive than direct-from-winery purchases, though you get quality and choice.
Best for: Winemakers with specific flavor goals in mind, those who want reliable supply, and furniture lovers sourcing barrels with particular features.
Online Marketplaces
Pros: Convenience of shopping from home. Huge selection from various sellers.
Cons: Need to be extra careful! Photos might not accurately reflect condition.
Best for: Bargain hunters and those comfortable inspecting a barrel before buying, or willing to put in some refurb work.
Specialty Retailers (Like Us!)
Pros: Curated selection of barrels ready for your furniture project or other repurposing. Barrels may be pre-cleaned for your convenience.
Cons: Pricier than direct winery sourcing, but you're paying for the time saved and quality assurance.
Best for: Anyone who values convenience, reliability, and barrels specifically chosen for their beauty and structural integrity.

Additional Factors to Consider

Budget: New oak barrels are unsurprisingly the most expensive. Consider used options if budget is a concern.
Size Matters: Think about how much wine you'll make. Standard Bordeaux-style barrels hold 225 liters, but smaller sizes exist.
Your Skills: Used barrels often need cleaning and potentially minor repairs. Are you DIY-savvy?

Barrel Hunting Tips

Ask Questions: Barrel age? Type of wine held? Any issues to be aware of? Reputable sellers will be transparent.
Visual Inspection: If buying in person, check for cracks, loose hoops, or excessive mold. Bring a flashlight!
The Nose Knows: A strong vinegar smell might indicate the barrel is beyond saving for winemaking.

Fun Winemaking Fact: Barrels can only be used for premium wines a few times before they impart less flavor. That's their second life as stunning furniture!

Inspiration Corner

Backyard Vintner: Source smaller barrels for home winemaking and later transform them into side tables or planters.
Regional Pride: Did you find barrels from a local winery? Incorporate them into your home decor for a touch of local flavor.
The Perfect Blend: Combine a new barrel for winemaking with a used one from the same region for your DIY projects!

Share Your Sources!

Where have you found the best barrels, whether for crafting delicious wine or unique furniture pieces? Tell us in the comments! And if you're ready to start your barrel journey, explore our collection.

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