I purchased this as a gift for my "bajanaki" who likes to experiment with Tsipouro. In Greece, it seems gifts of clothing are often the type of gifts many will give, but I wanted something unique and that would be of interest.

The "Bajanaki" was thrilled with this product, and I'm a bit jealous as now I want 2 or 3 of these for myself! :D

It is well made, is not a "toy," and I am looking forward to some "Pepolayomeno" that my brother-in-law makes with this very nice barrel.

The barrel is exactly what you see.

WARNING: before putting any drink inside, it would be good to prepare it. Fill it with hot water (and a little bit of pure alcohol if you want), leave it for 2 days, and coat it with some sealant* (e.g., beeswax) if necessary, and on the third day after you empty it and rinse it one more time, you fill it with wine or tsipouro.

*obviously, you will coat it from the outside, not the inside.

It is excellent. I have it to age tsipouro. It gives a wonderful color, aroma, and taste. The construction quality is excellent without leaks.