This workshop provides an immersive experience into the fascinating world of barrel making, or coopering, exploring the pivotal role barrels play in enhancing the flavors of spirits. Participants are guided through the entire coopering process, from assembling the staves and hoops to crafting grooves with a router table and charring the interior using a propane torch.

Under the guidance of our experts, attendees learn not only the skills of coopering but also gain insights into the art of aging spirits. From the various aspects of the aging process to the creative possibilities it presents, including using different barrel types and conditions, participants discover the diverse ways distillers are innovatively aging spirits, beers, and wines. The workshop offers a unique opportunity to personalize barrels using a wood burning tool, and participants may find inspiration for the next big thing in barrel-aged creations, from cocktails to innovative spirit combinations.

Any restrictions to participate?

• Age: 18+ to participate & 21+ to drink alcohol
• Experience level: This course is designed for beginners with little or no prior woodworking experience.

Who can you accommodate for?

• Children: This is not an experience for children.
• Individuals with disabilities: The workshop is not wheelchair accessible, however, service animals are allowed. 
• Pets: Well-behaved pets, comfortable with loud noises, are welcome.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

• Duration: Approximately 4 hours
• What’s included: 
  • All tools and building materials needed to make a handmade oak barrel, suitable for aging your own spirits, as well as an expert instructor to coach you through the workshop. You’ll assemble, shape, char, and personalize your barrel before filling it with the spirit of your choice for aging.
  • Bottle of wine from Gowanus Wine Merchants (for those 21+) and a pizza from Table 87 to enjoy after the experience
• Who will be present: You will have an instructor with you at all times as well as up to 8 total participants.
• Spectators: No spectators are allowed, everyone must have a reservation.
• Photo/ video: Photos are encouraged!
• Specific rules to follow: Your instructor will go over all the safety rules on the day of the workshop.

How to prepare?

• Weather dependency: This is an indoor experience.
• Arrival: Plan to arrive 15 minutes in advance.
• Parking: There is street parking available near the workshop.
• What to wear: Comfortable clothing, that is not too baggy, and that you don’t mind getting dusty. Closed toed shoes are required. 
• What to bring: If 21+ bring a valid government issued ID to drink alcohol, but no need to bring anything else with you! You will be provided with all the tools, safety equipment, and materials needed for an awesome experience.
• Restrooms: Restrooms are available onsite.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 14 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 1 week before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 1 week in advance means losing the value of your experience.