The Texas BBQ Forum

While this is an electric (hurl), as Papa Tom has scientifically demonstrated, it is possible to adapt non-metallic vessels to a smoking adaptation. And I gotta say, the idea of doing this somehow with a bourbon barrel is pretty appealing...and at one point at least, they were evidently being made in Sweeney Texas - it appears questions can be address to Herb or Lori Comley down there. I don't know them so full disclaimer, but thought this a neat idea.

http://napabarrelsmoker.com/Site_2/Wine ... moker.html
http://pitbossbelt.com/wp/wine-barrel-smoker
http://www.winebarrelwoodcrafts.com/

Yah, I plan to build one, they are indeed pretty neat. 2 thoughts did bother me on the typical build. First...I have heard of problems getting them to seal well or expanding afterwards. I also did not much like burning wood inside of wood. My thought was to steel line the inside, stuff the remaining space with insulation. Both probs solved. Still have yet to do it however so....?

Boots, they are pretty to look at but keeping them hydrated is a pita. Most folks that I know who built one use it more for a conversation piece now.
Here is a link that shows some really nice ones.
http://www.thesmokering.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=38104

My son builds these:
http://www.utopiasmokers.com