A whiskey barrel head is the circular piece of wood that forms the top or bottom of a whiskey barrel. It is typically made of oak, which is a durable and porous wood that allows the whiskey to breathe and mature. The barrel head is held in place by a series of hoops, which are made of metal or wood.
Whiskey barrel heads are important because they help to create the unique flavor of whiskey. The oak wood imparts flavors of vanilla, caramel, and spice to the whiskey, and the porosity of the wood allows the whiskey to interact with the air, which helps to develop its complexity. Barrel heads also help to protect the whiskey from evaporation and contamination.