Hi Bob,
The new barrels are not refurbished. They are manufactured in Spain, filled with dry oloroso sherry and stored for two years in a bodega in Jerez de la Frontera. After seasoning for two years, most of the sherry is pumped out. Approximately 20 liters of sherry is left in the barrels as "packing material". This sherry prevents the barrel from drying out. Most of these barrels are shipped to Scotland. I visited the cooperage a couple of weeks ago and met with the owner. Tree Spirits Winery and Distillery secured an agreement with the cooperage to import shipping containers of these barrels for our own use and will sell some them.
The refurbished barrels are old barrels that have been used for 10-20 years in sherry bodegas. In some cases, these barrels have been sold to the cooperage because they are leaking. In other cases, the barrels are replaced by the sherry producers because they want new barrels. The cooperage refurbishes these barrels and ensures that any leaks are repaired. They are pressure tested. Nevertheless, buyers should be aware that the environment in which barrels are stored is important. High humidity and relatively steady temperatures will help the barrels maintain their integrity. If leaks develop in these refurbished barrels, they can be repaired easily.
The terms of sale are as follows: A deposit of $200 per barrel paid with the order. The remainder paid prior to delivery of the barrels.