The Auswine Forum

Hey all,

Got an issue with my port keg. The stopper at the top is stuck in there good. Could be because when I put it in it overflowed, so maybe as the port has gone thick its turned gluey. My question is: How do I get it off? I reckon it needs a refill, but I can't get the damn thing off.

Even tried the gripper cloths, and carefully with pliers. I don't want to damage it or the barrel. Does anyone have any ideas?

Cheers,

Mike

I'd suggest careful application of hot water around the bung to soften the gunk.

I had this same problem tonight, I had filled my barrel for the first time (with water) on the weekend and then filled with some Muscat. I went to check on it this evening and the bung was stuck fast. I had not put it in with any force, but due to the barrel still swelling (I assume) it had become stuck. So a warning to new barrel users, check your stopper/bung daily for the first week to ensure it doesn't get stuck.

I managed to free it by wrapping a cloth around the stopper and striking it gently on either side with a small mallet. It came free after about 4 taps.

I would also advise against using hot water as I think it would be more likely to swell the wood even more, thereby making it more difficult to remove.