This channel is long overdue for some barrel action! Let's condition this barrel up so we can fill it up with the love child (watch this space)! So how do you stop a barrel leaking? Barrel Conditioning! Its important to understand that many barrels will not be ready to put spirits into right away. They will leak all over the place. We need to condition the barrel first. By hydrating the wood staves we cause them to expand and create a tighter fit, hopefully, a watertight one. If after 10-14 days of refining the barrel doesn't stop the leaking you have a few options. 1- Beeswax, rub it in or melt it and pour it on 2 - More aggressive hydration 3 - Tighten the hoops