Wine storage tips from Vintec

October 17th, 2011

Wine Storage

Storing wine is easy and simple – provided you know the rules. Because of the Australian climate it’s especially important to store your wine correctly to make sure you get the most out of your investment.

Here are 5 easy tips for wine storage success:

1. Stable temperature (between 12°C-14°C)

Red and white wine should both be cellared at the same temperature. Temperature fluctuations can affect the chemical reactions that take place over time, and temperatures over 25°C can ruin wine in a matter of weeks. Wine that has been subjected to temperature fluctuations can have an unpleasant ‘spoiled fruit’ flavour.

The serving temperature of red and white wine does differ (white wine is served colder than red), but you should only chill your white wine right before you’re ready to drink it.

2. Humidity above 50%

The humidity level is a particularly important consideration when storing corked wine. In your cellar a humidity level of 50% or above needs to be maintained, otherwise the cork might dry out and shrink – breaking the wine’s seal. Exposure to air can cause wine to oxidise, which creates an ‘off’ smell.

3. Dark storage area

UV light is damaging to wine – it creates hydrogen sulphide compounds which can affect the tannins and colour of your wine. Therefore it’s very important to keep your wine cellared in a dark location without direct exposure to sunlight.

4. No vibrations

Vibrations can prematurely deteriorate wine by speeding up chemical reactions and aging. This is why an ordinary refrigerator is not ideal for wine storage, as the motor causes imperceptible vibrations throughout the fridge (which can be made worse by wire shelves).

5. Airflow

Your wine cellar needs to be appropriately ventilated to prevent the wine from becoming stale and mouldy.

For more info, have a look at the Vintec and Transtherm Wine Cabinets video at Appliances Online’s YouTube channel.

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