So, you’ve been nurturing your barrel for a while (topping up, tasting, showing off to your friends) but lately, you’re ready for something new. Maybe you want to swap that rich, spiced Tawny for a luscious Topaque. Or perhaps your Muscat’s run its course, and you’ve got a hankering for something lighter and golden.
Is it possible? Yes!
Is it easy? Absolutely, (if you have the right tools!)
Here’s how to make the switch!
Step 1: Bottle Down What You’ve Got
Before you change styles, it’s time to set your current blend free. Empty the barrel and bottle it down. Keep it in glass, your wine will stay fresher for longer and be ready to gift, sip, or gloat over.
Hot tip: this is peak Christmas gifting opportunity. Nothing says “I’m thoughtful and talented” like handing out 500ml bottles of your own fortified creation. If you want to make life easy, we’ve got Barrel Club Gift Bottle Packs — 12 x 500ml bottles with caps, labels, and a gold pen so you can personalise each one.
Step 2: Give Your Barrel a Spa Day
Now that your barrel’s empty, it deserves a clean and refresh before the next chapter.
Here’s the cleaning routine:
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Empty the barrel completely.
Make sure no wine or sediment is left behind. -
Rinse with hot water and drain well. Allow it to dry completely.
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Make a deep cleaning solution:
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Fill your barrel about two-thirds full with cold water.
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In a separate container, mix 1 g citric acid and 2 g SO₂ per litre of barrel volume with a small amount of hot water until dissolved.
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Add it to the barrel, roll it to mix, top it up, and pop in the bung.
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Let it rest for 7–10 days.
This allows the solution to do its thing, neutralising microbes and resetting the barrel for its next blend.
Safety note:
SO₂ is fairly safe to handle, but always use gloves and work in a well-ventilated space. The fumes can be sharp, so no deep breaths please. You can buy SO₂ (as Sodium or Potassium Metabisulphite) from us or most brew shops.
Step 3: Rinse, Refill, Reimagine
After a week or so, it’s time to rinse your barrel and get it ready for its next chapter.
Rinse with hot water two or three times until any trace of the citric acid solution is gone you’ll notice the water running clear and the tangy scent fading. Make sure the barrel is fully drained before you refill.
Now, you’re ready to top up with your next adventure, whether it’s Topaque, Tawny, or that Classic Muscat you’ve been eyeing off.
Remember, the barrel will carry over a little of its former character and that’s the magic of it. A touch of Muscat sweetness or Tawny richness adds depth and individuality to your new blend. You’re not just refilling a vessel; you’re layering history.
Step 4: Keep the Cycle Going
Your barrel’s a living, breathing thing, treat it well and it’ll reward you for decades. Regular cleaning, topping up, and keeping those SO₂ levels healthy will ensure your fortifieds age beautifully for decades to come.
Ready to Make the Switch?
If you’re keen to start fresh or want advice on what style to go to next, we’re always here to help. Drop into the winery, shoot us a message, or grab your next top up online at liquidluxury.com.au.
