Photo by Ashley Foreman Productions
If you’re like most wine enthusiasts, you probably have a wine collection that you take great pride in. It’s important to store your wine properly so that it can stay in perfect condition for as long as possible. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for storing wine so that you can keep your collection in excellent condition and enjoy your bottles at their peak for years to come!
Storing Wine
Choosing the Right Environment
Storing wine bottles properly begins with choosing the right environment. Wine should be kept in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The ideal temperature range for wine storage is 55–59 °F (12-15 °C). You should also keep your collection away from any sources of vibration or abrupt movement that may disturb the sediment in the bottle.
Typically, the best place for storing your collection is a cellar or basement. If you don’t have a cellar or basement, you can also use a closet or spare room instead. Make sure that the room is well insulated and protected from extreme temperatures so that the wine doesn’t spoil.
Consider the Humidity
When choosing a storage area, you should also consider the humidity. Wine needs to be stored in an area with 55–75% humidity. If your closet or spare room isn’t adequately humidified, you may need to purchase a humidifier or use a damp cloth to increase the moisture levels.
Lay Bottles on Their Side
It’s important to lay your bottles on their side when storing them. This helps keep the wine in contact with the cork, which will help prevent it from drying out and potentially spoiling your collection. Keep in mind that wine bottles are made from glass, and glass can easily break. Store your wine on a rack or in a way they can’t be easily knocked over and broken. If you’re going to store several bottles on a shelf, make sure the shelf is anchored to the wall and can hold the weight.
Label Your Collection
Labeling your collection is an important step that should not be overlooked. Since your bottles will be stored on their side, you won’t see their original labels at first glance. By adding labels or tags to the bottles on their side, you can keep track of what’s in each bottle and also make it easier to find the right wine when it comes time to uncork them!
Keep Track of Suggested Aging Guidelines
It’s also important to make note of any suggested aging guidelines for your different wine bottles. This will help you keep track of which bottles are ready to drink and those that need more time before they should be opened.
Avoid Sunlight
As we mentioned earlier regarding the environment of your wine collection, be sure to avoid exposing your wine to direct sunlight or any sources of strong heat. This could cause the wines to age prematurely and potentially ruin the taste. Keep your collection in a cool, dark place away from any sources of heat or light for best results.
Avoid Vibrations
This is one storage tip that many don’t think of, but it’s important. Vibration, even just from walking around the area in which your collection is stored, can cause agitation and sedimentation that could affect the taste of your wines. As an example, storing your wines in the basement next to your home gym with banging weights might not be the best option.
Get the Right Storage Accessories
Investing in the right storage accessories will help you keep your collection in pristine condition. Consider purchasing a wine rack that’s specifically designed for wine storage to store your bottles safely and securely. Wine chillers are also great investments if you’re looking to keep your wines at the perfect temperature before they are served.
By following these tips for storing wine, you can ensure that your collection stays in excellent condition for years to come. Wine enthusiasts have plenty of options when it comes to storing their collections, so be sure to choose one that works best for you and your needs. With proper storage and maintenance, you can enjoy your favorite wines for many years!
Raylen Vineyards & Winery: Add Award-winning Wines from the Heart of North Carolina to Your Collection
RayLen Vineyards & Winery has been producing award-winning wines in the Yadkin Valley region of North Carolina since 1999. Our winemaker, Steve Shepard, has crafted an impressive array of reds, whites, and limited-edition wines that showcase the finest flavors from this region’s terroir. From our classic Cabernet Sauvignon to our popular White Carolinius, you’ll find a wine to please your palate. Come visit us and discover why RayLen Vineyards & Winery is one of the most celebrated wineries in the state and add another bottle to your collection!
