Oak barrels for Sap storage

[ProBoot]

Yeah I know
StAiNlEsS Is ThE OnLy OpTiOn

But I don't have $2500/tank to upgrade my storage system.

I see lots of Oak whisky barrels available for water storage and even have one myself.

I assume that people used to use this for Storage and transport as I have a great print on my wall of a painting with a oak barrel transporting sap to the sugar house.

Assuming in good shape and water tight will it work for storing sap in the bush prior to collection?

Eventually I'd like to figure a way to pump it directly into my shack holding tanks but again I am building and don't have $10,000 to spend on the needed set up for that type of operation overall.

Also would like to know if the SAP would absorb the whiskey/oak flavors while stored and infused the finished syrup with that vanilla and caramel flavor hints?

[Andy VT]

I'm intrigued! Whether it is a good idea or not I guess I can't say, but I hope you'll try it and report back!
I have no interest in any hint of pickles in syrup but a hint of bourbon is something I just can't think of a downside for....
This is a good time to mention I've chuckled at the facebook backyard groups bragging about their home-whittled spiles.
I mean it's cool and all, it really is, but spiles are cheap and storage is expensive.
I haven't seen a single person attempt to make their own wooden storage vessel.
Now THAT would be cool!
If Laura Ingalls grandfather could do it......

That said, my solution for the same problem has been Lowes Item #735502, a rubbermaid food-grade 44-gallon bucket with lid.

Probably not really worth making one's own wooden sap tanks I suppose. But does it make any less sense than making your own maple syrup?

[TapTapTap]

I don't use a wooden barrel for sap collection but I can offer a few suggestions to keep in mind:

- Sap storage tanks should be easily cleaned. I don't know if the oak slats used in the barrels are planed down to a surface that is easily cleaned. Obviously a rough cut slat would hold bacteria and be difficult clean. I also know from bowl turners that oak is a very porous wood (compared to other woods) and that may not be easily cleaned even if the surfaces are planed.
- Tanks should be covered. But you should have a removable cover so to allow effective cleaning.
- I don't know, but I have doubts, that the bourbon flavors would come through the boiling process.
- I still complain about the cost of stainless storage tanks but I've learned that selecting the right capacity and dimensioned SS tanks can still be a lot cheaper than customizing the space or other modifications to make a less expensive tank work for my situation. $2,500 could be seen as a good deal when all is considered.

Good Luck

Ken

[ProBoot]

It would be Bourbon barrels, no pickles. LOL

The barrels are somewhat cost effective at about 50Gallons for about $60-70 bucks, this are all multiple use barrels for whiskey/bourbon etc.

I might give it a try and see what happens, as far as cleaning, simple spray wash with lid removed, air dry would be my option. These barrels are all charred on the inside so they both seal well and are filed with flavor.