A ReCoop barrel will impart oak flavoring and oxygenation benefits for three years from the date stamped under our brand. Thereafter, it can be used as a neutral storage vessel for an additional 2 years.

Handle the barrel carefully and avoid rough treatment that could displace staves and lead to leakage.

In accordance with good wine making procedures, barrels should be stored off the ground in a temperature and humidity controlled cellar away from direct sunlight.

A barrel that is empty should be stored in a cool cellar, hydrated and sulphured every 6 weeks. When hydrating, make certain to avoid chlorinated water, as it is known to contribute to the development of TCA, a precursor to "corked" wine.

Barrel Hydration

The principal intent of hydrating a barrel is to ensure that the stave and head material are swollen with water to protect against wine seepage. Use only chlorine free, clean, potable water.

We recommend that you completely fill the barrel with warm water for a period of 24-48 hours. After the wood expands and all leaks stop, it is fully hydrated.

Once all water is removed the barrel should be filled with wine immediately.

If the barrel is not filled immediately with wine, let the barrel dry and gas with sulphur or burn a sulphur strip to prevent any mold or fungus growth.

Winemakers will sometimes remove or soften the harsher characteristics of new oak, preferring more vanillas and cinnamons. This is often accomplished by:

• extending the period of water saturation (the barrel is completely filled for a period of 24-72 hours) or,
• Once hydrated, cured with alkaline solutions of weak sodium chloride, sodium carbonate or caustic soda. If alkaline solutions are used, make sure to rinse out and neutralize the barrel with citric acid prior to filling with wine.

 

Nail hole or beetle bore repair.

Identify the source of the leak and clean around the area with a wet cloth. It is advisable to insert an ice-pick or round poker to ensure the hole is as round as possible.

Carefully tap a spile into the hole until it is snug. Cut the excess spile material with a small saw. The hole is now repaired and will prevent any liquids from exiting the barrel.

Please call us if the problem is not repaired so that we can remediate the issue.