Hi everyone on Auswine, first time posting.
I have just purchased 2 x 9 litre oak barrels form the keg factory in Vic.
I have 5 litres of 8 year old tokay and 5 litres of 8 year old muscat both form Bullers to put in them.
I have read/been told many different ideas regarding barrels and thought i might turn here for some advice.
i believe i have an idea of how to condition the barrel prior to use ( any advice would be helpful though). A couple of things i do need advice on:
1 - will this first batch have a very strong oak taste and if so any ideas on how to avoid this.
2 - do i need to top up each barrel every couple of months?
Any other advice would be much appreciated as this is the first time i have owned barrels and tried to age a wine.
Look foward to your replies.