Barril

A barril is a cylindrical container traditionally made from wooden staves bound by metal hoops, used to store and transport liquids. The interior is typically oak, and many barriles are toasted or charred to influence flavor and aroma. A bung hole allows filling and drawing off the liquid, and some designs include a head plug to permit controlled air exchange during aging.

Barriles have a long history in the storage and shipment of wine, beer, spirits, and olive oil. In winemaking, wooden barrels enable slow oxygenation and can impart compounds from the wood—such as vanilla, spice, and tannins—that shape flavor, aroma, and texture. In beer and spirits production, barriles contribute character and complexity and are often used for aging, blending, or finishing.

Size and shape vary by region and purpose. The term barril is the Spanish word for “barrel” and is cognate with the English word; in different countries, it may also refer to a unit of volume with capacities that differ by commodity and historical practice. Modern practice includes alternative containers such as metal drums, but wooden barriles remain closely associated with traditional aging methods and artisanal production.

Etymology and usage notes: barril is the standard Spanish term for a barrel and is related to terms in other Iberian and Romance languages. While closely linked to the English word barrel, the exact dimensions and applications of a barril can differ according to local industry standards, historical conventions, and the liquid being stored.