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That is ambitious. You might consider buying a used barrel from a local vineyard. I think that's the cheapest/easiest way to get that authentic wooden barrel look, in a size that will be useful.

ehow has some barrel making instructions, but I have a feeling this is the kind of thing that takes lessons and supervision by an expert to really get a finished product you can use. Maybe you already have some major woodworking skills and can handle it. Good luck!

http://www.ehow.com/how_2084028_make-barrel.html

I've no knowledge in that area whatsoever, but I do know that "cooperage" is a word that describes a barrel-maker's work. That may assist your research.