*UPDATE: RIS has now been in the barrel for 2 months. I made 2 stainless steel sampling ports from 3/16" rod. One for barrel head (sample tap) and one for stave (vent). I must say I was anxious while drilling the holes but you can't make an omelette w/o breaking a few eggs. Anywho, the beer is evolving greatly. Good oak character, not to much oak at least as far as I can taste. It has a good aroma from the rye whiskey and the taste might be a bit more whiskey than I want but hopefully it will tame. As I was told early on that I should only barrel age for 1 month or too much barrel character will come through. I'm going to let age at least 1 more month, taste and decide if more time is warranted.