Craft Your Own Whiskey Barrel with Craftsman Ave in Brooklyn
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Requires basic hand strength and mobility suitable for standing and light manual work during the workshop.
Overview
Master the art of barrel making with Craftsman Ave in Brooklyn. Build, char, and personalize your own oak barrel designed to age whiskey and craft cocktails over time.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Setup
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before the workshop to get settled and review safety instructions.
Wear Close-Toed Shoes
You’ll be working with wood and tools—protect your feet with sturdy, closed-toe footwear.
No Prior Experience Needed
This class accommodates beginners, so bring your curiosity and willingness to learn.
Be Patient During Aging
Aging your spirits is a slow process; the flavors develop over weeks or months after you’ve finished the barrel.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Peregrine falcons nesting on city buildings
- Seasonal shorebirds along the canal
History
Brooklyn’s Gowanus neighborhood has a working-class heritage that blends industrial past with modern artisanal crafts, making it a fitting place to revive coopering.
Conservation
Craftsman Ave emphasizes sustainable wood sourcing and minimizing waste in crafting barrels to respect environmental impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe shoes
Protect your feet during woodworking and charring steps.
Comfortable clothing
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit dusty or charred.
Notebook or phone for notes
Useful for jotting down aging tips and cocktail ideas.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the hands-on workshop.