You've spotted some repurposed wine barrels, a clever and quite common sight in California, especially in areas with a rich wine-making history. These aren't just any old barrels, though. They've been given a new life, likely as unique and rustic-style trash receptacles or planters, blending utility with a touch of local character. Wine barrels like these are typically made from either French or American oak and are a crucial part of the winemaking process. They impart specific flavors and aromas to the wine during fermentation and aging, contributing to its complexity. Once a barrel has been used for a certain number of years, often between three to five, its ability to influence the wine's flavor diminishes. At that point, wineries often sell them off. Instead of being discarded, these "spent" barrels find new purpose. You'll see them everywhere from garden decor to furniture, or, as here, as charming and functional additions to public spaces. The visible black metal bands are the hoops that keep the staves, or individual wooden slats, tightly together, preventing leaks. The small hole on the side of the barrel closest to you is likely the bung hole, which is traditionally used for filling and emptying the barrel and for monitoring the wine during aging. Seeing them used this way is a neat example of upcycling, transforming something that has served its original purpose into something new and useful, all while paying homage to the region's agricultural heritage.