Storing New Barrels

ADK Barrel ships each barrel with a protective wrap. We recommend you keep the protective wrap on each new barrel until you are ready to inspect and use it.
Store your new wrapped barrels in a cool, climate controlled environment. If possible, keep pallets of barrels completely wrapped. We recommend rehydrating the barrels after 60 days of storage.

Rehydrating New Barrels (Use cold or hot water)

Cold Water Method

Hot Water Method

Add 5 gallons of filtered, chlorine-free hot water to the barrel; use the hottest water available (180°F/82°C).
Insert a silicone bung tightly.
Rotate the barrel from side to side to completely wet the inside of the barrel.
Hydrate the head by standing the barrel upright on one head for up to 4 hours.
Repeat the process. Rotate and stand the barrel on the other head for up to 4 hours.
Check the barrel for leaks. If leakage occurs, contact us.
Drain the barrel and let it dry (approximately 1 to 2 hours).
Be careful when removing the bung; internal pressure might build-up inside the barrel.

We recommend the following best practices for cleaning, storing and rehydrating empty ADK Barrel barrels previously used for winemaking.

Thoroughly rinse the barrel with filtered, chlorine-free water until the drainage appears clear.
Drain the barrel and allow it to dry thoroughly (estimated 1 to 2 hours).
Once the barrel is completely dry, treat it with 10g to 20g of sulfur sticks (or an equal amount of sulfur gas) to deter microbial growth.
Insert a silicone bung snugly in the bunghole.

When you are ready to refill an empty barrel, it is important to first follow the barrel rehydration and inspection instructions above.