Deep South Barrels Fan Perfects Aging Spirits

We love hearing how our customers use their barrels to create inspiring, delicious cocktails for their family and friends. DSB superfan Patty Lopez has been aging spirits for several years now, and says that the process is truly fascinating to her. “I had no idea what they were when my husband brought one home,” Patty says. “I just thought they were cute little home décor items. But once we started aging stuff, I found out that there’s a lot involved in the process. Now, I enjoy trying new combinations.”

Island Attitude

Patty first found out about Deep South Barrels through her husband, who had found the barrels online. They have a set of 2L barrels, and though Patty likes to try different cocktail combinations with her barrel results, she keeps what goes in the barrel limited to vodka and Crown. “My favorite is any tropical sort of drink,” she says. “I experimented with the DSB coconut rum essence a while ago, and we all really liked that. I mixed it with pineapple juice and maraschino cherry juice, and it was delicious! And it was super-tropical tasting. I couldn’t believe that I had made a drink that good.”

Patty’s advice for first-time barrel-agers? “Don’t let the barrel go dry. I made that mistake and it wasn’t salvageable after that. It was my own fault but it’s definitely something you have to stay on top of.” When not in use, always store your barrel with water inside it, and keep the barrel in a cool, dry place. This ensures that you will get the most use out of your aging barrel.

Finally, Patty recommends that everyone try something new with their barrels. “You never know how good a flavor combination will be until you try it! And it’s liquor, so it’s pretty hard to screw up." Thanks for your feedback, Patty! If you have a recipe, DSB story, or tip to share, email us at [email protected]. Added by Christina on April 22, 2015.