Eli5: how is it possible that a wooden barrel, which is used for aging alcohol, does not rot away.

Question

Or how do they prevent it from rotting for such a long period of time.

I cant imagine that they use multiple wooden barrels during an aging proces of 30 years or so. Because it would interupt the proces, I geuss?

In: 71

Answer 1

Some of the most valuable wood is ancient. Old wood beams from hundred year old buildings are prize salvage.

That said, barrels are filled with high proof alcohol which we know from the pandemic is an anti=ceptic and a preservative.

Wood rots when it has contact with soil with its bugs, bacteria and fungi. Houses are built with a lot of wood, but they make sure that is separated from the soil with a cement, or brick foundation.