Wine Storage Conditions

With today’s vine growing and wine making techniques, the quality of wine has nothing to do with luck. But then again, in order to reach its full potential, wine should be kept in the best conditions. In ideal conditions, most wines can keep for a year or two. However, many wines will require a longer aging period, in a wine cellar with ideal conditions.

Ideal Wine Storage Conditions

Temperature, light, vibration, oxygen and humidity are important to consider. A wine cellar regulates these conditions to optimize storage capabilities.

  • Temperature : Temperature is a key factor in proper wine storage. The optimal temperature is between 52° and 59° F (12° and 15° C), though any constant temperature between 45° and 65° F (5° and 18° C) is acceptable.
  • Light : Many experts maintain that exposure to light prematurely ages wine. Although there is no evidence to support this theory, wine is best kept in the dark. Adequate lighting fixtures will help you move around in your cellar.
  • Vibration : Constant vibrations from a busy road or nearby machinery may prevent the normal sediment in an aging wine from settling; frequent movement should be avoided. To minimize vibrations do not choose a room next to machines or motors.
  • Humidity and Oxygen : Humidity should be strictly controlled : a relative humidity of about 70% is ideal, although any range from 50% to 80% is acceptable. Too much humidity creates mildew around the cork and will cause the label to deteriorate while too little humidity dries out the cork. Use a horizontal position for your precious bottles since this will allow the cork to stay moist and prevent oxygen from entering.