When asked, the usual answer is that they make many more spirit barrels than wine barrels and it does appear the wine barrels have a better quality white oak. For a quick example of barrels and pricing, from a large cooper,
PREMIUM SPIRITS BARREL – 200 Liters/53 gallons
$162.25 USD
• The world’s most popular whiskey barrel, flavoring and aging spirits around the world.
• Seasoned American oak.
• Galvanized steel hoops.
• Your choice of char level.
• Premium quality finish.
PREMIUM SPIRITS RESERVE BARREL – 200 Liters/53 gallons
American Oak $265 USD
• Crafted for the producer who wants softer oak flavors with increased
complexity after extended aging.
• 2-year fine-grain seasoned oak
• Comes standard with a 30-minute heavy toast followed by a light char.
Other toasting options available.
• Toasted heads.
• Galvanized steel hoops.
Traditional Series Wine Barrels offers a classic barrel for your wine making needs. This barrel is the world’s best value thanks to the amazingly consistent and well-rounded oak character it imparts during aging. Choose from four toast levels.
American Oak 200L/53 Gallons $280
American Oak 225L/60 Gallons $310
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Obviously better quality wine barrels, even White American Oak, is quite a bit higher in price, $400 plus for an American Oak barrel is not uncommon.
I have found that the small coopers in Kentucky are geared 100% towards spirits barrels and know little about wine barrels.
If the wood is tight grained, seasoned at least 18 months (not kiln dried) and only toasted and not charred, any spirit barrel is essentially a wine barrel. For a barrel that will rarely see 200 gallons of use, that is a low return on investment for $ spent.
Tony