When it comes to used barrels, three things matter most: aroma, integrity, and reliability.

What Is TCA—and Why Should You Care?

TCA (2,4,6-Trichloroanisole) is the chemical compound behind cork taint. But it doesn’t just affect corks—it can also form inside barrels, leaving behind a musty, moldy smell that ruins wine or spirits. Common descriptions of TCA include wet cardboard, damp basement, or moldy newspaper.

The worst part? Even trace amounts can dull aromas and kill a beautiful vintage.

Our Microbial Test Results

In June 2025, we submitted five of our oak barrels for microbial plating and culturing through BevTrac Mobile, a trusted independent wine lab. The results?

• No spoilage yeasts detected: Brettanomyces, Saccharomyces, Zygosaccharomyces
• No spoilage bacteria detected: Acetobacter, Lactobacillus, Oenococcus, Pediococcus
• Only minor environmental microbes (like Bacillus), which are common and harmless

The Smell Test

Our team at Quality Wine Barrels conducts a smell test on every single barrel——we literally put our noses to work.

We sniff each barrel for any sign of TCA, volatile acidity, Brettanomyces, or other off odors. If it doesn’t smell like clean wine and oak, it’s rejected for refill and recycled into planters and yard art.

Leak Testing

Even a small leak can lead to major product loss, contamination, and even spoilage. Tight seals are critical—especially at the heads, stave joints, and bung.

That’s why we use high-heat steam under pressure. This process not only sanitizes, but creates a steam vacuum that naturally swells the wood and ensures the barrel is water-tight—no soaking needed.

The goal is simple: every barrel arrives to each winery ready to fill.

Our Guarantee

We stand behind every barrel we sell. If your barrel is inspected within two weeks of delivery and shows signs of spoilage or failure, we’ll make it right.

That’s our Refill-Ready Guarantee.

Let us know what you need—we’re happy to help.

We love to talk barrels, and create long-lasting relationships with our customers.

Please call or email us!

Luke Brewer and the team

sales@qualitybarrels.com

(805) 481-4737