If there’s something here you decide you just must have, we’ve provided links to the product websites. When you click on the link and make a purchase, Beasley Media Group may earn a commission. We are an Amazon Associate and earn from qualifying purchases.
For wine lovers, drinking wine at the end of the day is one of the ways we can rest and relax without leaving the comforts of our home, especially for those who prefer to have a quiet night. If you have a growing collection of wine, you should also know how to properly care for it because good wine costs a lot.
Proper storage and handling can make a significant difference in the wine’s taste. Neglecting your wine collection could mean losing out on the quality and taste each bottle has to offer. Whether you’re someone who just enjoys drinking wine or a serious collector, understanding the basics of wine care will help you enjoy your collection once you pop it open.
1. Wine Lovers Know Wine Must be Stored Horizontally
Have you ever wondered why wine racks are designed to keep wine horizontally? The reason for this is to keep the cork moist, if the cork is dry, it can shrink, or crack and air will seep in which can lead to oxidation and spoil the wine (we wouldn’t want that).
If you can’t store your wine horizontally, you can keep it at a slight angle, just make sure the cork is still in contact with the wine. Never keep your wine vertically because the wine is not in contact with the cork.
2. Control Temperature
If you are aging wine, you must store it at a consistent temperature. Extreme temperatures can negatively affect the wine’s taste and the aging process. Ideally, wine should be stored between 45°F and 65°F (7°C to 18°C).
3. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Wineries always store their wine underground because UV rays can prematurely age the wine. Wine lovers who don’t have a cold, dark basement, you can store your wine in a dark room or a wine fridge with UV protection glass doors.
4. Humidity Level
Aside from keeping your wine at a consistent temperature, you need to consider the humidity level too. The humidity level should be around 70% to prevent corks from drying out or mold from forming. Make sure that you don’t go overboard with the humidity if you’re worried about air seeping in or mold forming, because too much humidity can damage the labels.
5. Avoid Vibrations
Avoid storing wine in places that are frequently vibrating like near washing machines as this can disturb the sediment in wine bottles and it can affect the wine’s quality. Wine lovers know that frequent exposure to these jarring movements can cause a less refined taste.
6. Keep Your Wine Fresh Longer
If you don’t finish your wine, make sure you have gadgets or tools to keep it fresh longer. There are products available like vacuum sealers or inert gas systems to help preserve the wine’s flavor.
7. Keep an Eye on Your Collection
As a wine lover, it’s essential to regularly check your wine collection and rotate bottles that are ready to be enjoyed. Make sure you take note of the wine’s aging process so you can enjoy them at its peak.
8. Consider a Wine Cellar
If you have the space and resources for it and you’re serious about your collection, invest in a wine cellar or a wine fridge for long-term storage without affecting the wine’s quality and taste.
Electric Wine Opener
For those who don’t have the patience (or the upper body strength) to uncork wine using a corkscrew, say hello to your new best friend! With just a push of a button, you can easily open any wine bottle in seconds. For a single charge, this electric wine opener can open 30 bottles of wine.
Wine Decanter with Aerator
Wine decanters serve a dual purpose: to aerate a bottle of wine and to serve your favorite red wines in an elegant container. Perfect for when the book club is meeting at your place.
Wine Preservation System
Keep your opened wine bottle fresh for days, or even years if you use this wine preservation system from Coravin. Ideal for those who want to savor their wine and only drink one glass a day.
Insulated Wine Tumbler
For those days when a coffee to go isn’t sufficient, you can enjoy a wine to go instead. This wine tumbler from YETI will keep your wine at the perfect temperature whether you’re on a picnic, beach, or on the way to meet your in-laws.
Wine Glasses Set
This one’s a no-brainer. Choose a set with glasses of red and white wine like this one from the Ouwo store.
Wine Bottle Chiller
This wine bottle chiller will not only keep your wine cold, but it will also spruce up your wine cart. It’s also multi-functional since it can also keep your beer or other bottled beverages cold, not just specific to wine bottles.
Wine Rack
If you don’t have the space but still want to properly store your wine collection, opt instead for this countertop wine rack that can store 14 bottles of wine. Not bad! It also comes in three colors; black, gold, and rose gold and no assembly is required.
