Great barrel if the manufacturer used proper strapping materialI purchased 14 of these barrels a few years ago and the metal straps only lasted one season. The straps literally disintegrated. Out of the 14, I think there are only 3 that still have all three straps. The wood is great, but without anyway to hold it together, they are all falling apart and now I have to re-pot everything after I find some new barrels. Overall I would rate this negative stars. It is expensive at $40 a piece and the straps they used are worthless. You will have to buy replacements every few years. Quality wise, the wood is excellent, but again, it doesn't matter if there is nothing to keep it together. Value is extremely poor because you will waste time, money, and gas re-doing all the work you did. I do not recommend this pot. My parents have wine barrels that are at least 12 years old.
by mw