One of the most frequently asked questions is how to best store wine. Many factors influence keeping wine in prime condition. This guide provides useful tips to help with wine storage.
Wine storage best practices
For individuals who do not have access to temperature controlled storage solutions such as wine fridges or underground cellars, there are several best practices to follow in order to properly maintain a wine collection within a residential home environment. Adhering to certain guidelines will help prevent accidental spoilage and allow select reds the opportunity to further develop quality over time.
KEEPING IT COOL
Maintaining the appropriate storage temperature is crucial for wine kept at home.
The ideal storage range for wine bottles is between 10 to 13°C. Consistency within this temperature range is most desirable. Fluctuations caused by heat sources such as pipes, radiators or other appliances should be avoided, as kitchen areas are generally not suitable due to temperature variability. Variations in temperature can induce expansion and contraction of the wine, potentially damaging it over time.
Similarly, very cold temperatures should also be avoided, as they are potentially detrimental. Wine should be stored cool, not chilled, so leaving bottles in the refrigerator for extended periods is not recommended. This prolonged cold exposure can dry out corks and lead to stale wine, which is why wine is best placed in refrigeration just prior to serving.
It is important to note that ideal serving temperature may differ somewhat from storage parameters. Careful attention to both storage and service conditions will help ensure the wine is maintained at its best quality.
KEEPING IT STILL
Excessive movement should be avoided when storing wine bottles, as it can negatively impact flavour development. Subjecting wine to unnecessary agitation prevents the proper maturation process and often results in disappointment upon opening. Even vibrations transmitted through sound waves could disturb the wine’s evolution, so keeping bottles near audio equipment is best avoided.
Cork-sealed bottles must be stored horizontally. The ideal storage method is a wine rack, which ensures the cork remains wet in the correct positioning. A desiccated cork may prematurely age the wine, making horizontal placement particularly important for long-term cellaring.
While screw-capped bottles do not strictly require to be stored horizontally, adopting this practice maximises storage space efficiency and does not introduce any disadvantages. Horizontal arrangement is therefore recommended as the optimal configuration regardless of closure type used.
KEEPING IT DARK
Exposure to intense light can potentially compromise wine quality and lead to increased temperatures that will have a negative impact. When storing wine, it is best to select locations that avoid direct sunlight as well as artificial light. Minimising the light exposure wine receives is paramount to preserving freshness of flavour over time.
For optimal conditions, strive to store bottles in total darkness whenever feasible. This storage method will best shield the wine from light’s detrimental effects. Proper light management enhances your ability to maintain the full range and complexity of aromas and tastes that develop over a wine’s lifespan.
LEAVING IT
Certain wine varietals are more suitable for long-term ageing compared to others. Many full-bodied red wines have tremendous ageing potential, allowing them to be cellared for years or even decades as they slowly evolve in flavour and complexity over time. However, wines intended for extended ageing will require decanting prior to serving in order to separate the wine from sediment that naturally develops during the ageing process.
In contrast, wines priced under £10 are typically crafted for immediate consumption. These wines are not designed or expected to develop further with extended bottle ageing. As such, wines in this price range should only be stored for brief periods. Our recommendation would be to enjoy white wines within 16 months, while reds could reach their peak drinkability window between 18 to 24 months post-vintage. Proper storage conditions are also crucial for wines at this price point to preserve quality for the short time they are cellared.
How to store opened wine
While consuming an entire bottle of wine in a single sitting can be enjoyable, preserving unfinished bottles for future enjoyment is quite practical. Most varieties of wine can maintain quality if properly stored for several more days after initial opening. Simply replace the original closure with a wine stopper or reinsert the original cork and place the bottle in the refrigerator. The chilled temperature of the fridge will slow the oxidation process and minimise deterioration of the wine’s flavour, aroma and colour that occurs once exposed to air. With a little care taken in re-corking and refrigeration, there is no need to feel compelled to finish an entire bottle in one go.
