Barrel Making: Finishing

Before the barrel can be sold or shipped, its outside must be planed so that splinters will not dog cellar work. The barrel is tested for leaks, usually with steam or hot water injected through a small hole drilled in the bung stave. If the barrel passes the test, the small hole is drilled to bung-hole size and cauterized. The temporary iron hoops are removed and the final ones, usually made of metal and sometimes of chestnut, are fitted.