Vintage Wooden Barrel with Metal hoops great for whiskey-Denton’s Bear Alaska ?

About this barrel

Metal hoops, weathered oak and a possible Alaska connection give this vintage wooden whiskey barrel a story worth asking about. The seller's title mentions Denton's Bear Alaska followed by a question mark, so the origin seems unconfirmed. It's listed used and described as great for whiskey.

Is a vintage wooden whiskey barrel better for decor or drinks?

Most old barrels work best as decor. Whether you can use one for spirits depends on whether the wood is clean and sound, and whether it can still swell tight.

• Message the seller about its history and any markings.
• Look at the photos for cracks, mold or rust on the hoops.
• The listing doesn't give a capacity, so check the item specifics.
• To test it, fill it with water and watch for leaks before trusting it with whiskey.

It's sold by an independent eBay seller and covered by the eBay Money Back Guarantee.