Whisky barrels are a special type of wooden drum, key to the production of whisky. After distillation, whisky is typically aged for years in wooden casks before being bottled. So, it is important that whisky barrels are handled, stored and moved with care to avoid damage to their valuable contents.

Our solution: the bespoke Whisky barrel forklift attachment

St Clare Engineering barrel handling forklift attachments provide an effortless and safe solution for the often-challenging task of moving whisky barrels. Our range of Grab-O-Matic attachments not only enhances productivity but also guarantees the preservation of these valuable casks – and keeps the ‘water of life’ safe inside!

St Clare Engineering’s whisky barrel handler is a fork-attachment Base Gripper which automatically grabs the base of the whisky barrel. Secure gripping arms close around the body of the whisky barrel body when it’s raised. To release the barrel, the forklift operator simply places the barrel down and reverses, initiating automatic release. There is no need for your operator to even leave the cab.

Let’s take a look at why whisky barrels need such careful handling.

Whisky aging – a time-consuming investment

Whisky aging is a critical process that significantly influences the flavour and character of this distilled spirit made from fermented grains. Aging can take many years – for example, Scotch Whisky must be aged for a minimum of 3 years in oak casks to be legally classified as Scotch. However, many Scotch whiskies are aged much longer, often between 12 to 25 years for optimal flavour development.

The importance of barrels in whisky production

Whisky is aged in wooden barrels because the porous wood imparts its colour and flavour into the liquid during the ageing process, with longer aging typically resulting in a more complex flavour profile.

Whisky barrels are usually made from oak, with American white oak and European oak being the most common varieties. The wood is carefully selected and crafted to ensure proper aging of the spirit.

Whisky production regulations may dictate the type of barrel to be used. For example, for bourbon, rye and other American whiskies, the rules stipulate the use of new, charred oak barrels for the aging process.

The high value of whisky barrels

It is essential for distilleries to ensure that their valuable whisky barrels are not damaged during handling. Whisky barrels are often bespoke, and unique to each distillery. Barrels often undergo special treatments or have a specific history:

  • Charring involves burning the inside of the barrel, which creates a layer of activated charcoal that filters the whisky and adds smoky flavours.
  • Toasting is a milder heat treatment that caramelises wood sugars, enhancing vanilla and caramel notes.
  • Bourbon barrels are often reused for aging Scotch whisky, imparting unique flavours
  • Some distilleries use barrels previously used for sherry, port, or wine to finish their whiskies, adding complexity to the flavour profile.

Safe handling of whisky casks and barrels is therefore a key requirement for any operations involving the production of whisky.

Safe handling of whisky casks and barrels

It is estimated that approximately 22 million casks are currently maturing whisky in warehouses across Scotland, containing the equivalent of about 12 billion 70cl bottles of Scotch Whisky. Each of these barrels requires careful handling, including barrel rotation and relocation when necessary.

Moving whisky barrels manually is not only time-consuming but can also lead to human error and safety hazards. From filling and emptying, to transportation across distilleries and storage facilities, efficient barrel handling is crucial at every stage.

With St Clare Engineering Grab-O-Matic barrel handling forklift attachments, these challenges become a thing of the past. Our wine and whisky barrel forklift attachments are specifically designed to handle whisky barrels of different sizes and wooden construction safely, allowing distilleries to streamline operations without compromising the quality or safety of their barrels.

Why choose St Clare Engineering for whisky barrel forklift attachments?

St Clare Engineering stands out in the whisky industry for several reasons:

  • Proven expertise: with a track record of delivering tailored solutions to a range of whisky and wine producers, St Clare Engineering is trusted by professionals across the globe.
  • Quality craftsmanship: every Grab-O-Matic attachment is built to last, using only the highest quality materials to ensure longevity and reliability.
  • Customisable designs: no two distilleries are the same, and St Clare Engineering recognises this by offering bespoke solutions tailored to the safe handling of each distillery’s unique whisky barrels.
  • Safety-first approach: protecting both workers and the whisky barrels. Our barrel-handling forklift attachments are designed to minimise risks associated with manual handling and ensure safe transportation of heavy barrels.

Quality craftsmanship for a quality product

Whisky barrels are not just containers but play a valuable role in the whisky-making process. St Clare Engineering barrel handling forklift attachments offer distilleries an efficient, safe, and reliable way to manage these valuable whisky barrels. Our Grab-O-Matic system not only boosts productivity but also ensures that each barrel, and the precious liquid it holds, is protected.

St Clare Engineering is proud to supply drum handling forklift attachments to a number of whisky distilleries in the UK and abroad. If you would like to join them, please contact:

Andy Bow – St Clare Engineering Ltd
Tel: 02380 643402
Fax: 02380 642189
Email: sales@stclare-engineering.co.uk
Web: www.stclare-engineering.co.uk

FAQs

How does St Clare Engineering’s Grab-O-Matic handle whisky barrels?
The Grab-O-Matic system securely grips whisky barrels using a specialised barrel handling attachment, designed to fit various forklift models. This allows distilleries to safely move barrels without damaging them.

Can St Clare Engineering create custom attachments for unique barrel sizes?
Yes, St Clare Engineering offers bespoke solutions tailored to the specific needs of distilleries, ensuring that their attachments fit barrels of different sizes and shapes.

How much weight can the Grab-O-Matic attachments handle?
Grab-O-Matic attachments are designed to handle heavy loads, including full whisky barrels that can weigh up to 400kg.

What are the safety benefits of using a drum handling forklift attachment?
By automating the handling process, forklift attachments reduce the need for manual labour, minimising the risk of injury and damage to barrels. This ensures a safer and more cost-effective working environment in distilleries.

Can these attachments be used for other types of barrels?
Yes, St Clare Engineering’s barrel handling attachments are versatile and can be adapted for other barrels, including wine and sherry barrels.

Why is proper handling important for whisky production?
Proper handling of whisky barrels ensures that they maintain their integrity throughout the aging process, preserving the flavour and quality of the whisky and avoiding financial losses due to damaged barrels.