Maintaining the Barrel
After several years, typically about three, you may find that your oak barrel is no longer aging your spirits or wine as rapidly. This is the time that your barrel will need to be re-scorched. This re-charring is a simple process that can be done with a butane lighter, which has a flexible end. Simply remove the spigot and stopper, and then place the end of the lighter into the opening. While the lighter is lit, slowly roll the oak barrel to put a fresh char on the inside.