Rum Barrel Maintenance: Tips for Proper Care and Storage

For quality and flavored rum, the barrels in which rum is stored must be fine. Sanitary treatment and correct storage of these barrels not only preserve the service life of these barrels but also help to achieve the preservation of the properties imparted to the rum. That is, new barrels or buying used bourbon barrels, or used rum barrels involve tremendous skills in cleaning the barrels and managing them. Here is a short overview of some of the most important aspects of the appropriate barrel care techniques and some advice on how to clean the barrels to store rum as well as possible.

The Importance of Barrel Care

Barrels are not just containers; they are pivotal players in the aging process of rum. Each phase of barrel use—ranging from initial preparation to aging—is crucial in shaping the rum’s flavor, aroma, and texture. If barrels are not properly cleaned, issues like the growth of epoxies, bacteria, and undesirable flavors can arise. Adhering to strict cleaning and storage protocols ensures that barrels remain effective and valuable in the rum-making process, preserving their functionality and the quality of the rum produced.

Barrel Cleaning Techniques

When it comes to rum barrels, cleaning is one of the maintenance processes and it is a very vital one. Here are some key cleaning tips for rum barrels to keep your barrels in excellent condition:

1. Rinsing and Draining:

To avoid this, it is advisable to ensure that the barrel is washed with warm water after use to make sure that it is free from the remaining liquid or any substance. Always dry the inside of the barrel as any water left in the barrel is likely to cause mold or bacterial formation.

2. Using Hot Water and Steam:

For a thorough cleaning of barrels, it is advisable to wash the interior with hot water or use steam for sterilization. Steam is particularly effective as it penetrates the wood’s structure, eliminating bacteria and removing stubborn stains. However, a potential drawback of using steam is that it can damage the wood if the temperature is not properly controlled. Thus, careful regulation of the steam temperature is essential to avoid harming the barrel while ensuring it is effectively cleaned.

3. Sodium Percarbonate Solution:

Sodium percarbonate is effective when it comes to cleaning barrels and it is safe for use. They use it with water to produce a washing solution; where they then pour this solution in the barrel. It is left to soak for some hours then washed until clean. This process assists in the elimination of organic materials thus preventing the development of off-flavors in the rum.

4. Avoiding Harsh Chemicals:

Acidic solutions can leave the barrel dry and eliminate the outer skin of the wood leading to splits. For this reason, avoid using strong chemicals such as bleach when cleaning your barrel, go for mild solutions that are commonly used in cleaning such equipment and those that are commercially available including citric acid or barrel cleaning tablets.

5. Air Drying:

After washing, the barrel should be thoroughly dried in an open, well-ventilated area. Hanging it upside down helps ensure that all moisture evaporates completely. Proper drying is crucial to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, ensuring the barrel remains in good condition for future use.

Barrel Care and Storage Tips

Cleaning is not the only thing that should not be overlooked in handling rum barrels and that is storing. Here are some tips for effective barrel cleaning:

1. Regular Inspection:

Ensure that your barrels are well-checked for signs of deterioration like cracks, leaks, or signs of mold formation. This means that there should be early identification of such concerns so that in the future they can be handled as minor issues. The most important thing to notice is the barrel heads and staves because, in most cases, they are damaged.

2. Keeping Barrels Hydrated:

When not in use, used rum barrels that are left empty will dry up and they create a shrinking effect of the wooden material used to create the barrel thus developing cracks on its surface. To avoid this, it is advised that you always moist your barrels with water or a spirit that is not of the barrel when you are not using it. This process is called “wetting” which assists in keeping the barrel in good condition.

3. Storing in a Cool, Humid Environment:

Ensure that your barrels are kept in conditions that maintain the proper moisture levels in the wood. The ideal environment should have a temperature range of 55-65ºF (13-18ºC) and a relative humidity of around 70%. Avoid stacking barrels in areas exposed to excessive heat or direct sunlight, as this can cause the wood to expand, leading to cracks and leaks. Proper storage helps preserve the integrity and functionality of your barrels.

4. Rotating the Barrels:

Used rum barrels should be rotated for uniform maturation of wines and the sediment should not be allowed to settle at any given area. It also aids in preserving the rum’s stability and in the prevention of the development of unfavorable body/notes.

5. Re-coopering:

If the barrel’s damage is severe, think about reclaiming and refashioning the barrel in a cooper’s barrel fashioning. Re-coopering requires disintegration of the barrel, rectification or replacement of the faulty staves, and then reconstructing it. It can make the barrel last longer so that it can carry out many more aging processes.

Conclusion

To ensure the longevity of your rum barrels and enhance the complexity of your spirits, proper care is essential. Adhering to the recommended cleaning and storage practices helps maintain the quality and functionality of your barrels. At Rocky Mountain Barrel Company, we prioritize the quality of our barrels to support the aging process effectively. Our diverse selection ensures that your spirits mature to their fullest potential with our expert assistance. For both distillers and rum enthusiasts, giving meticulous attention to barrel care is crucial for producing the best-flavored whiskies and rums.