Instructions for Wine Storage
When storing wine there are many factors to consider such as the length of time, humidity, light and heat. Casual wine drinkers will look at this differently than serious connoisseurs of wine so storage options are varied. Preserving the wine for total enjoyment is the optimal goal in either case.
Short-Term Wine Storage
Store your wine in an area where the temperature stays between 45 and 60 degrees. Put it in an area that does not have constant light. Light breaks down wine and changes the color and taste. Store the wine laying on it's side. Oxygen is one of wines biggest enemies and has a chance of entering the bottle if the cork shrinks. By storing the bottles on their sides this will allow the wine to keep the cork moist and preserve the taste.
A low cupboard, a purchased wine rack or wine refrigerator are excellent choices for storing a few bottles. With the wine refrigerator the wine will be at the desired temperature whenever you are ready to enjoy it. Storing wine in this way is the perfect option for storage if the wine is used within a years time.
Long-Term Wine Storage
Storing wines for a time longer than one year requires a temperature controlled area. Besides keeping it at an even temperature it requires an area with humidity levels above 50 percent. Another factor involved in storage preparation is vibration. The bottles need little or no vibration while they are being stored on their sides.
Purchase a self-contained wine room if you are an avid collector or planning to sell collectible wine at a future date. Research the type of wines you are planning to store if they are for this purpose. Most wines are now made to be consumed immediately. Reds and champagnes are more feasible for this purpose.
Other options are to buy a wine keeper or rent cellar storage for your wines. Create a wine closet for an easy option. Place racks in a closet for an easy solution. Store your wines according to the time you plan on consuming them.
Learning how to store your wine will make the experience more enjoyable as you learn to taste the differeance nuances achieved with time and types of wine.