Age-It-Yourself Rum

[gmarket]

I think this is quite a novel idea:

http://theshout.com.au/2009/02/23/article/LOIORHKMBU.html

[Edward Hamilton]

Several forum members have bought small barrels and filled them with rum. The problem for most of us as individuals is that rum ages pretty quickly in a small barrel so you really need to share this with several friends. And the barrel needs to remain as full as possible or it may dry out and begin leaking. A twenty liter barrel doesn't sound too big until you consider that it's going to take more than 24 750ml bottles in order to fill it.

[LaQuesta]

I know this does not have the "black patch over the eye" appeal that aging in a barrel does, but home distillers have been aging with oak chips in the bottle with good success. Overall there are less issues with leakage and you can increase the oak to alcohol ratio easily this way but you will not get the same oxidation/ventilation that is acquired from a barrel.

It's fun to experiment with but, I don't think I have enough life left to acquire the experience or talent of the master blenders. When I want the good stuff I'll buy it. When I want to fuel my car, I'll make it.

[Edward Hamilton]

The oxidation angle is the downside of oak chips in a bottle. On the other hand if you're just looking for oak flavor this is a good way to go. It is important to check, as in sample the wares on a regular basis so you don't over do the oak, especially if you're using new wood.