With the heat of summer on it’s way, it’s important to store you wine properly. Without the correct storage, that special bottle you’ve been saving for your 25th wedding anniversary in July, could end oup tasting like vinegar instead of your favorite vintage. Our party experts have put together a few tips to help you store you wine to perserve it’s integrity.
- Wine is best kept at 55° F ( 13° c). If it goes up or down a few degrees in the hottest and coolest months, it will be fine. But overall, the temperature should stay pretty constant. A good way to gage if the spot you are thinking will work is to test the temperature in the morning, afternoon and evening to get an idea of the average daily temperature.
- Wine should be stored on it’s side. The cork needs to stay moist to prevent it from shrinking. Keeping the cork moist also prevents the cork from growing harmful microbes.
- Store wine in a dark place. You don’t want it exposed to direct sunlight. As nice as the wine rack looks out on the table, it really is best stored in a cool cupboard or pantry.
- If you are interested in a getting a wine fridge and space is an issue, consider looking for a small one that mounts under your cupboard. Most of them hold 4-5 bottles.
- Avoid storing your wine in areas that are subject to vibration (like near a washing machine or high foot traffic area). Exsposure to lots of vibrations can cause elements of the wine to break down and therefore changing the flavor of the wine. This is also why regular old refrigerators don’t make great wine coolers, they rattle and vibrate a little too much.
If you are a wine lover you don’t have to have a wine cellar to keep your wines happy. Just remember to store wine on it’s side, keep it out of direct sunlight, keep it cool and keep away from major vibarations, you’ll have great tasting wine all year long. Cheers!
Looking to share your great wine with friends and family this season? Check out PurpleTrail’s dinner party ideas for some inspiration!
