SPIRIT BARRELS

SELECTED WOODS – EXCLUSIVE CASKS

Our barrels are crafted from a carefully curated selection of the finest woods. These include French, American, Carpathian, Spanish, Hungarian, Danish, and the particularly rare Mizunara oak, as well as Mongolian oak. This spectrum is complemented by character-rich wood types such as acacia, pear, ash, chestnut, cherry, mulberry, amburana, and balsam wood. Each type of wood imparts its own unique and distinctive character to the distillate – ranging from delicate notes of vanilla and caramel to spicy, floral, or fruity aromas. This diversity offers distilleries an exceptional range of maturation options and flavor profiles.

DISTILLATE BARRELS AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL

Our premium casks are exclusively produced in our carefully selected cooperages in France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Slovenia, and the USA. Here, traditional craftsmanship meets the latest production technologies – a combination that ensures the highest quality and consistent results. Every cask is made with utmost care, precision, and a deep understanding of the demands of high-end spirit maturation. The uncompromising selection of raw materials and masterful workmanship ensure that our casks are not merely containers for aging, but true instruments of refinement. In doing so, we make a direct contribution to the success of our customers – cask by cask.

EXCLUSIVE WOOD AND PREMIUM CASKS FOR YOUR DISTILLATES

The choice of wood plays a crucial role in determining the character and quality of a distillate. French Limousin oak, in particular, is considered one of the finest and most sought-after wood types for spirit maturation. Sourced from the vast forests of central France, it is known for its coarse grain structure and high content of tannins and aromatic compounds – qualities that make it an ideal wood for cask production.

Thanks to its open-pored nature, Limousin oak allows for an intensive interaction between spirit and wood. This process not only enhances oxygen exchange and accelerates maturation, but also contributes to a pronounced color development and a complex aromatic profile. Vanilla, spice, subtle roasted notes, and refined wood tones define the sensory expression, giving the distillate depth, warmth, and elegance.

Our premium Limousin oak casks are crafted with the utmost care and artisanal skill. Each individual cask is the result of decades of experience in cooperage and is tailored to the specific needs of the distillery – whether for Cognac, whisky, fruit brandies, or innovative spirit creations.

With such a barrel, you’re not only giving your distillate the space to mature, but also a distinctive signature. It is the union of natural material, masterful craftsmanship, and sensory finesse – for distillers who seek the extraordinary.

AMERICAN WOOD – EUROPEAN CRAFTSMANSHIP

American white oak (Quercus alba) is native to the eastern regions of North America and ranks among the most important cask woods in the world – especially in whisky production. Its wood is medium to large-pored, rich in tannins, and contains a remarkably high concentration of vanillin. These properties give spirits aged in American oak barrels a particularly warm, rounded, and aromatically complex profile. Typical maturation notes range from sweet vanilla and caramel to coconut, honey, and mild toasted aromas. The relatively dense structure of the wood allows for slow, controlled oxidation, which plays a key role in harmonizing the distillate. White oak imparts depth and a characteristic smoothness – one of the reasons it is prized not only in the U.S. but also across the global spirits industry.

Our American white oak barrels are handcrafted in our cooperages using traditional European cooperage techniques. Here, American raw wood meets European craftsmanship – a combination that brings out the best of both worlds. The experienced coopers at our partner cooperages skillfully transform the natural properties of the wood into perfectly crafted casks: from gentle air-drying to precise cutting and customized toasting. The result is high-quality barrels that impress both visually and sensorially – ideal for whisky, but equally suited for rum, brandy, or innovative craft spirits. For those seeking a cask that combines character, consistency, and aging quality, American oak with European refinement is an outstanding choice.

SUSTAINABLE OAKS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

In the forest-rich foothills of the Carpathians, where the climate is harsher and tree growth is slower, oaks of exceptional quality thrive. The wood for our characterful yet cost-effective casks comes from these sustainably managed forests. Careful selection of trees, combined with responsible forestry practices, ensures that each oak used is not only of high quality but also harvested in an environmentally conscious manner.

Carpathian oak is characterized by a fine to medium pore structure, allowing for a balanced interaction between wood and distillate. Particularly noteworthy is the natural aroma profile of this wood: it delivers complex yet harmonious flavor notes – including spicy, slightly sweet nuances, delicate wood tones, and an elegant depth that is clearly reflected in the distillate. This type of oak thus provides an ideal maturation environment for a wide range of spirits – from fruit brandies to whisky and innovative craft distillates.

Our barrels made from Carpathian oak combine sustainable origin with outstanding sensory impact – all at an impressively affordable price-to-performance ratio. They are an excellent choice for distilleries that value quality without overstretching their budget. With their versatility and expressive nature, these casks make a valuable contribution to the flavor development and identity of every spirit.

EXPRESSIVE CASKS FOR DISTINCTIVE DISTILLATES

Our premium casks made from Spanish oak originate from the northern regions of Spain, where the trees grow slowly under demanding climatic conditions. This environment shapes the wood’s structure in a unique way – similar to French oak, yet with its own distinctive character that is clearly reflected in the aroma it imparts.

Spanish oak is renowned for its bold, rather dry aromatic profile. In contrast to American oak, which often delivers sweet, warm notes such as vanilla and caramel, Spanish oak brings more austere, spicy, and profound tones to the distillate. The tannin structure is balanced: noticeable but not overpowering – ideal for distillers seeking to add elegance and complexity to their spirits without overwhelming them. Spanish oak is particularly well-suited for aging spirits where a strong wood influence is desired – such as mature fruit brandies, rum, or robust whisky. Its moderate tannins ensure a stable balance between fruit, wood, and spice, while the comparatively dense wood structure supports controlled maturation.

Our Spanish oak barrels are crafted in close collaboration with experienced coopers who handle the material with the utmost care. Each cask is a true expression of traditional craftsmanship and offers distilleries the opportunity to create unmistakable, characterful spirits.

TRADITION AND DEPTH FOR YOUR DISTILLATES

Hungarian oak (Quercus petraea), which grows in the expansive forests of the Carpathian Basin region, has been a valued raw material in traditional cooperage for centuries. Originally used primarily in winemaking, this distinctive oak species has in recent years found its place among distillers as well – offering a character-rich and sustainable alternative to French or American oak.

Hungarian oak grows relatively slowly, resulting in a fine, tight-grained wood structure. This gives the casks ideal properties for spirit maturation: it allows for gentle micro-oxidation and balanced aroma release. Compared to American oak, the flavor profile is less sweet but more complex, with nuances of dried herbs, subtle spices, nuts, and a delicate wood note. Particularly noteworthy is the subtle tannin structure, which gives the distillate depth and body without overpowering it.

Our Hungarian oak casks come from sustainably managed forests and are crafted with great artisanal skill. The wood undergoes careful air-drying, is toasted to suit the spirit type, and is precisely processed by experienced coopers – ensuring consistently high-quality casks tailored to the needs of modern distillers.

Hungarian oak is perfectly suited for spirits where elegance and aromatic complexity are desired. Whether for aged fruit brandy, whisky, or innovative craft spirits – it offers an exciting and flavorful alternative for producers who value individuality and sustainability.

JAPAN’S RARE TREASURES FOR EXCEPTIONAL DISTILLATES

Japanese Mizunara oak (Quercus mongolica var. crispula) is considered one of the most exclusive and sought-after oak species in international cooperage – not only because of its unique aromatic profile, but also due to its limited availability and the challenges involved in its processing. This noble hardwood grows slowly in the cool, humid regions of Japan, especially on Hokkaidō, and takes several decades to reach the maturity required for barrel production.

Mizunara is particularly porous and retains more moisture than other oak species – characteristics that make it a true challenge for cooperage. The wood is prone to cracking and demands a high level of expertise, precision, and patience in its handling. This complexity, combined with the restricted harvesting volumes, makes each Mizunara cask a rare and exclusive creation.

What truly sets Mizunara apart, however, is its aromatic influence on the spirit: distinctive notes of sandalwood, coconut, oriental spices, incense, and a hint of temple smoke create a fascinating, almost mystical spectrum of aromas. These evolve richly during maturation and lend the distillate an unmistakable, Far Eastern elegance. Originally rooted in the Japanese whisky tradition, Mizunara barrels are now increasingly being used by international distilleries seeking a truly extraordinary expression. Whether for whisky, rum, or experimental spirits – a Mizunara cask is more than just a vessel for maturation: it is a symbol of refinement, patience, and cultural depth.

EXCLUSIVITY IN COOPERAGE AND A CHARACTERFUL RARITY

Casks made from Danish oak are among the rarest and most extraordinary products in the world of cooperage – a true insider’s tip for distilleries seeking something genuinely special. Danish oak is a true "exotic" among cask woods: available only in limited quantities and difficult to source, its origin alone makes it a highly exclusive raw material. Its use in barrel-making is rare and requires both experience and sensitivity in processing.

The trees grow in the cool, often windswept regions of Denmark, where the challenging climate slows their growth. The result is a dense, robust wood structure with a distinctive aromatic profile. On the sensory level, Danish oak delivers powerful, slightly spicy notes, often accompanied by earthy depth and a touch of austere elegance. The tannins are noticeable but harmoniously integrated – ideal for giving the distillate structure and expression without overpowering it.

Due to its limited availability and selective harvesting, every Danish oak barrel is a unique piece in the world of barrel aging. Moreover, the processing of this wood demands special care – from cutting to long natural air-drying to precise toasting, all tailored to the specific needs of distillers.

Danish oak casks are perfectly suited for individual aging projects where uniqueness takes center stage. Whether for bold whisky, complex brandy, or experimental spirits – this wood gives each distillate an exclusive signature and a touch of Nordic originality.

EXPRESSIVE DISTILLATE CASKS MADE FROM ACACIA WOOD

Acacia wood is one of the most intriguing alternatives in cooperage beyond the classic oak varieties – not only because of its striking color and hardness, but above all due to its intense, aromatic-spicy influence on spirit maturation. As an exceptionally dense hardwood, acacia offers excellent conditions for controlled micro-oxidation and slow, even aging. The wood’s distinctive golden-yellow to deep honey-colored hue is often reflected in the coloring of the distillate itself. But even more important is its sensory potential: acacia imparts bold, spicy aromas – often with nuances of pepper, cinnamon, herbs, and a subtle balsamic note. This intense yet balanced aromatic profile makes acacia barrels an exciting tool for distillers seeking new forms of expression.

Our acacia wood casks are crafted using traditional cooperage methods and are suitable for a wide range of spirits – from powerful fruit brandies to rum, gin, or innovative specialty creations. They not only add depth to the distillate but also impart a distinctive character that clearly sets them apart from oak-aged spirits. One particular advantage is that acacia wood has a noticeable impact even over shorter aging periods. This makes it ideal for distilleries looking for a bold cask profile without committing to long-term storage. Acacia casks thus offer both sensory and economic advantages.

DISTILLATE CASKS MADE FROM AROMATIC WOOD

Casks made from pearwood are a true rarity in cooperage – and at the same time offer an exceptional maturation experience for discerning distillers. The fine-pored, dense wood of the pear tree is not only visually striking with its warm, reddish-brown hue, but above all of unique sensory value. Its sweet and fruity aromatic profile imparts a delicate, almost elegant note to the distillate during maturation, clearly distinguishing it from classic woods such as oak or chestnut.

Pearwood barrels develop gentle yet noticeable aromas – from subtle fruit notes and a hint of almond to mild spice tones. These delicate nuances unfold particularly well in high-quality fruit brandies, but also in innovative spirit creations that rely on refined wood influence and layered flavors. With its low tannin release, pearwood is ideal for distilleries aiming not to overpower their spirits, but to refine them with precision and elegance.

The wood for our pearwood casks comes from carefully selected, slow-growing trees. Following selection, it undergoes a long natural drying process, which is essential for optimal aroma release during aging. In our cooperages, this rare material is processed with the utmost craftsmanship – from precise cutting to perfectly adjusted toasting. The result: casks of the highest quality, marked by precision, elegance, and sensory finesse.

Pearwood barrels are the perfect choice for those looking to enhance their distillates with character, finesse, and a touch of extravagance – ideal for adventurous distillers seeking to give their products a distinctive, unmistakable signature.

THE DISTINCTIVE MATERIAL FOR EXPRESSIVE DISTILLATE CASKS

Ash wood is one of the lesser-known yet highly intriguing alternatives in cooperage – a true rarity among cask woods. Its light, yellowish to pale reddish-white hue not only gives it an elegant appearance but also suggests a certain sensory lightness. However, ash offers far more than visual appeal: its structure is dense, finely pored, and simultaneously elastic – ideal conditions for crafting durable and characterful casks.

Ash trees are widespread throughout much of Europe, and we source our wood exclusively from sustainably managed, certified forests. Each log is carefully selected, gently dried, and specially prepared for barrel production. This responsible approach to raw materials ensures not only consistently high quality but also resource-conscious manufacturing.

From a sensory perspective, ash wood imparts a fine, herbal spiciness, often accompanied by subtle nutty and floral-woody notes. Its tannin content is moderately expressed, allowing the spirit’s original character to shine through while adding a delicate, yet clearly perceptible, wood influence. Ash casks are therefore particularly well-suited for spirits that aim to retain a fresh, natural profile – such as fruit brandies, clear grain spirits, or modern aged gins.

Our ash barrels are crafted with artisanal precision – with the experience and intuition required to work with a wood that holds a special place in cooperage. They offer distilleries the opportunity to explore new territory and to imprint their spirits with a distinctive signature – subtle, pure, and powerfully expressive.

EXCEPTIONAL CASKS FOR YOUR DISTILLATES

Chestnut wood is one of the most fascinating alternatives in cooperage – a noble, medium-weight wood with a unique character all its own. Its natural structure and distinctively sweet aroma profile make it a particularly appealing choice for aging a wide range of spirits. While traditionally used primarily for wine and fruit brandy maturation, more and more distilleries today are discovering the potential of chestnut for whisky, rum, gin, and experimental creations.

The wood is defined by medium density and a fine-pored texture, allowing for a gentle exchange between spirit and oxygen, which supports a harmonious and gradual maturation process. From a sensory perspective, chestnut wood brings a pleasant sweetness – often with notes of honey, dried fruits, vanilla, marzipan, or even subtle toasted accents. At the same time, the wood influence remains in the background, giving the spirit ample space to express its original character. Fruit brandies in particular benefit from this unique feature: chestnut enhances the fruitiness, adds structure without overpowering, and imparts a velvety depth to the distillate. Other spirits also gain a refined, elegant aging character in chestnut casks, which sets them apart from oak-aged expressions and elevates them to new sensory dimensions.

We use only high-quality, naturally air-dried chestnut wood from sustainably managed forests for our barrels. Crafted with artisanal precision, each cask guarantees the highest quality and individuality – a truly exceptional barrel for truly exceptional spirits.

FRUIT-FORWARD AROMATICS FOR DISTINCTIVE DISTILLATES

Casks made from cherry wood – more specifically from wild cherry or sweet cherry – are a rare and exceptional choice in cooperage, offering distilleries the opportunity to impart a uniquely fruit-forward aromatic profile to their spirits. This medium-weight wood, with its medium-coarse pore structure, ensures balanced maturation and a fine harmony between the wood influence and the spirit’s original character.

Cherry wood is especially prized for its aromatic potential: it imparts pronounced fruity sweetness, paired with slightly tangy, almost berry-like notes. Accents of almond, red fruits, and a gentle, warm wood tone complete the profile. This combination gives the distillate not only depth and complexity but also a vibrant, almost playful freshness – making it an ideal partner for spirits with a naturally fruity foundation. Fruit brandies, in particular, benefit greatly from aging in cherry wood casks, as their inherent fruit aromas are enhanced rather than masked. Experimental whiskies, grappas, brandies, and creative gin expressions can also gain in individuality and complexity through the use of cherry wood barrels.

For our cask production, we use only high-quality cherry wood sourced from sustainably managed European forests. After a long, careful drying period, the wood is processed in our cooperages with the utmost craftsmanship – always with attention to the special properties and aromatic influence of this rarely used cask material.

Cherry wood barrels provide distilleries with a unique opportunity to break away from conventional maturation styles and give their products a signature marked by fruit, character, naturalness, and finesse.

AROMA-RICH WOOD FOR PREMIUM CASK QUALITY

Mulberry wood is among the most expressive and, at the same time, rarest cask woods in the world. Its exceptional aromatic intensity and distinctive coloration make it a sought-after choice for distilleries in search of unmistakable maturation profiles. In cooperage, mulberry is considered a true specialty due to its sensory strength and visual appeal – a barrel for connoisseurs and individualists.

The wood has a medium to firm density, with fine pore distribution and a high capacity for aroma release. Its visual impact is particularly striking: spirits aged in mulberry casks take on an intense, golden-yellow to amber hue – a visual mark of quality that, combined with its aromatic depth, creates a truly distinctive overall impression. From a sensory standpoint, mulberry wood offers a naturally sweet base note – often accompanied by honey, dried fruits, vanilla, delicate floral tones, and a hint of exotic spice. This combination gives the spirit not only fullness and elegance but also a warm, almost Mediterranean character. Mulberry barrels are thus ideal for fruity brandies, grappa, mild whiskies, rum, or creative craft spirits.

Our mulberry wood casks come from strictly controlled, sustainably managed forests. They are crafted by experienced coopers who are well-versed in handling this rare material. From slow air-drying to careful toasting and precise cooperage – every step is tailored to the unique nature of this extraordinary wood.

Mulberry barrels are the perfect choice for distilleries looking to refine their products with individuality and a keen sense of sensory finesse. They represent character, uniqueness, and the highest cask quality – a true statement in every respect.

COMBINATION OF DIFFERENT WOODS FOR UNIQUE AROMA PROFILES

Our hybrid distillate casks open up new creative possibilities for distilleries in the maturation of high-quality spirits. What makes these barrels special is the deliberate combination of different woods—most often classic oak, either French or American, paired with characterful alternatives such as acacia, chestnut, or wild cherry. This carefully crafted union allows the structure and aging stability of oak to merge with the aromatic diversity of rarer woods—resulting in spirits with impressive depth, complexity, and individuality.

In the construction of a hybrid barrel, various components—such as the staves and heads—can be made from different types of wood. This creates a deliberate interplay of sensory influences: oak provides structure, fine tannins, and classic aging notes like vanilla or toast, while the second wood—such as acacia, chestnut, or cherry—adds fruity, spicy, or sweet nuances. The result is a distillate that clearly surpasses what a single-wood cask can achieve.

The production of our hybrid casks is carried out in close collaboration with our experienced cooperages, who master not only the craftsmanship but also the sensory interaction between different woods. Each cask is individually designed—tailored to the specific spirit and the desired aroma profile. Especially for innovative distilleries, hybrid barrels offer an exciting tool for differentiation and the development of truly unique aging styles.

Whether for whisky, rum, grappa, gin, or refined fruit brandies—a hybrid cask always makes a statement: one of creativity, sensory awareness, and a desire for new forms of expression. For those looking to rethink traditional aging, hybrid casks represent the perfect fusion of tradition and innovation.