Barrels Unlimited operates a state-of- the-art cooperage in Fresno, California. Since opening in 1994, the cooperage has produced quality oak wine barrels that are marketed by Napa-headquartered Barrel Associates International.
All of the barrels created at the cooperage are handmade in the Bordeaux style from air-dried American Oak. Stringent specifications must be met every step of the way in order to pass strict quality control standards set for the cooperage. The result? A high-quality, beautifully-handcrafted barrel each and every time.
STEPS 1-3
STEP 01: It takes a minimum of two years for the oak wood to age. After the aging process, staves are cut to proper lengths and are jointed precisely for the barrel size.
STEP 02: Staves are meticulously chosen and arranged by hand in a specific pattern to create the perfect oak barrel.
STEP 03: Temporary hoops are placed on the barrel to hold the staves together for toasting.
