[Redlegbrewer86]

I am getting ready to empty my bourbon barrel for the second time. (1st was an Imperial Stout and second was an American Porter). Is it possible/ worth it to "recharge" the barrel by adding 2 handles of bourbon to the barrel to keep it sterile until my next use; Or is it time to let it go wild?

[Stevie]

That's your call. Don't let it stay empty for too long.

[kramerog]

Bourbon doesn't prevent mold so your window for keeping the barrel empty, but wet is fairly short.  For long-term storage, other options are better.

[Redlegbrewer86]

Bourbon doesn't prevent mold so your window for keeping the barrel empty, but wet is fairly short.  For long-term storage, other options are better.

I have a formula for longer term storage using a Metabisulfite and Tataric Acid solution. I 'm not sure if adding bourbon back to the barrel would revitalize it for future bourbon barrel-esq flavor brews, or if after two uses it's pretty much stripped of those qualities regardless of the addition of bourbon to the barrel.