Making a wine barrel is perhaps best left to the experts unless you have all the ingredients to hand. If you have got what it takes, give it a try, if not it’s always interesting to know how it’s done.
Ingredients:
- Oak tree.
- 4 metal hoops
- 2 lids (or Heads)
- Chainsaw
- Handsaw
- Winch
- Sandpaper
Time: Allow at least 8 hours in total for this project.
Method:
Using the chainsaw cut down your Oak tree. Ideally the tree should be 100 years old, 5 feet in diameter and a French Oak.
Use the base of the tree up to the first branch. Split the truck into four. Split each quarter into 7 pieces, these will be your staves or planks which form the sides of the barrel. Cut the staves to the desired height and width to make a good fit.
Leave the staves to dry for at least three years. Humidity is important here, ideal levels are 15%. If the level is too low add water, if it’s too wet add sunshine or heat.
When dry check the length of the staves and hollow out one side slightly, this will be the inside of your barrel.
Place one of the metal hoops on the ground and place the staves upright inside it. Dampen the staves with water and place the barrel over a fire for 30 minutes.
Remove the barrel from the fire and using the winch slowly arch the staves to achieve a curve. Place the remaining metal hoops over the barrel and use a mallet to ensure a tight fit.
Cut a groove on the inside of the barrel at the top and bottom for the lids and finally sand the barrel with sandpaper. You’ve done it; you’ve learnt how to make a wine barrel, congratulations!
This barrel will be good to use for five years, after that time you can sand down the inside and use it again for another five years. After ten years the barrel will no longer be suitable for wine so why not cut it in half to make a planter for your garden or a fantastically fragranced coffee table – Now that’s something more suitable for occupying your weekend.
So, now you know how to make a wine barrel, what’s next?
Visit these boutique wineries to grow your knowledge of boutique wine and boutique wineries:
