It doesn’t matter if you’re a wine aficionado or you’ve just started getting into wine. Storing your wine collection is essential and doing it well will make all the difference. We’ve outlined four wine storage options so that you’re more conversant when it comes to making a final choice. Read on as you sip a glass of wine.
Wine Fridge
One popular option for storing small or large wine collections is the wine fridge. Choose a fridge that’s the right size for you. Remember to add room for the expansion of your future collection. It’s also recommended that you opt for a fridge that has multiple climate zones if you’re storing different wine types. The fridge’s compressor or motor should be vibration free, as vibrations can affect the wine. A door that’s made of tinted glass or that can’t be seen through is ideal, as light affects wine too. For short-term storage, slide-out shelves are perfect. Solid shelves are best for long-term storage.
Wine Cellars
Wine cellars are for those folks that call themselves serious wine enthusiasts and boast a generous wine collection. They’re walk-in, allowing you easy access to your wine. Cellars keep your wine at optimal humidity levels and in optimal temperature conditions. These are controlled by the addition of refrigeration/cooling units. Ensure that your cellar has plenty of racks for wine storage (with lots of space for extra bottles). Choose a freestanding unit or build a wine cellar in your house somewhere.
Wine Cabinets
Another option you have for storing your fine wine is a wine cabinet. This can be larger or smaller as you need. Look for a wine cabinet that has the right hinges (piano hinges aren’t suitable as the door won’t seal properly). When fully loaded, the cabinet needs to be strong enough to take the wines’ weight. Your wine cabinet should also be able to control humidity and temperature. Many styles are available, so you can find one that best suits you.
Wine Racks
If you like drinking wine but not keeping it for long to make it a collection, then the best storage option for you is a wine rack. These racks are designed to hold bottles in a way that the cork is always in optimal condition. This reduces the risk of “corked” wine and prevents air from entering the bottle.
Racks can be made from different materials like glass, steel, chrome, wood and wrought iron, or a combination of these. What you choose depends on your personal taste. A rack can be small or large and either freestanding or built into your kitchen cabinetry. Make sure it’s in a shaded corner or out of direct sunlight as wines don’t like the light. When choosing a wine rack, make sure it’s a single depth rack; consider the size of the rack; check the spacing of the rack, and decide what design and material you want. See Wine Rack Shop for ideas and options.
As you know, wine tastes better with age. With a fridge, cellar, cabinet or rack, you can store your wine for ages.