I think I'm going to enter the world of oak barrels and would like some
advice on a couple of quick questions.

First, top up reserve. What should I plan on having around for the
initial batch, and subsequent (in %).

Second, the size I purchase may be driven off of the answer to the
first question, but I'm torn between 30L (8 gal) and 55L (14.5 gal).
My preference is the larger, but that's going a little high on my
preferred volume range (for one varietal, anyway). The question is I
expect a 30L to provide benefit, but will the 55L be *that* much better
in the long run regarding length of storage, quality, etc.

thanks for any help.

Patrick