I was just wondering about this this afternoon on my way home, and have now found my answer. I live in the bourbon capital of the world and might have to hit up some of the distilleries around here and see if one of them will cough up a barrel. I used to have a contact at Four Roses who gave me two some time ago, but havent talked to him in a while. Maybe its time for a visit. We also have Jim Beam, Makers Mark, Heaven Hill and Barton brands close by.
What about the charred insides of the barrel. At Four Roses, where they drain the barrels there is a large pile of the charred inside of the barrel that pours out as the barrel empties. Can this be mixed in with the charcoal as well. not too sure well it would burn.
Another question, will burning staves/charcoal from the barrels have any affect on temps as it burns off the alcohol in the wood? Im thinking that if you add very much it may burn a little hotter
Sorry, didnt mean to hijack the post.
Todd