American Oak Barrel with Black Hoops (3 Liter or 0.8 Gallons)

I received my 3L a week sooner than expected. Out of the box it looks a little rough, the stand is cheap pine but the barrel does look oak and well charred. I soaked with warm tap water for about 2 hours with no leaks then took into shower to soak exterior for 10 min. Let sit another 2 hours and emptied and filled with fine Idaho clear apricot brandy. I 'll wait 2 months and then use slowly. I will update if there's a problem. I was apprehensive but I think after 3 coats of bees wax wood conditioner it'll last for many years and I'll be buying more from Sophia 4 sure! Thanks!!

Delivery was exceptional ten to sixteen days ahead of expectation. Pleasantly surprised by speedy response to order. I was surprised there were no instructions on "care and feeding" of new casks. But we live in the age of digital reference libraries so not really a major issue. Overall pleased. Looking forward to first taste of oak aged Portlandia Apricot-anise Meade during Mid-Summer Celebration.

Leaks, and drips everywhere. Bottom of this was so sticky from the slow leaks

I think it is an awesome barrel. My only issue is that I have been waiting a very long time to be able to use it. I've had issues with the leather in the spigot not sealing. They have sent me another spigot and I've been tinkering to get it to seal right. So as of now fingers crossed that when I put my liquor in it it does not leak all over.

The tap showed up broken

Very good quality. Read directions about soaking it first so that the wood swells to avoid leaks. A friend ordered a different one that wasn't nearly the quality of this one. We are very pleased with this barrel!!!

The aging barrel arrived on time and as advertised. It was easy to prep for storage and is aging away now (and not leaking at all). Very nice.

The spout was broken and looked as if they tried repairing it instead of replacing it. The barrel itself seems to hold good though.