Abstract: A cask for whisky (10), e.g. in a hexagonal or triangular prism shape for ease of stackability. The cask is comprised of a number of staves (11), bound together to form the prism shape. Accordingly, stacking multiple casks naturally compresses the staves together and reduces spirit loss through the side wall of a cask. A method for stacking casks is also described, wherein the cask may be hexagonal, triangular or square ended.

Abstract: A stigmasterol-rich phytosterol composition is prepared wherein the composition comprises at least 50% stigmasterol, based on the total weight of phytosterols, no more than 1000 ppm water, no more than 50 ppm ethanol, and wherein stigmasterol is at least 98% in the anhydrous form. A ready-to-freeze beverage is provided comprising the stigmasterol-rich composition and water, with optional additives. A frozen beverage is prepared from the ready-to-freeze beverage as a pourable slush. There are further provided processes to prepare the ready-to-freeze beverage and the frozen slush beverage.