November 05, 2010
Revised November 5, 2010. Copyright © 2010 Dealhack.com. All Rights
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The perfect wine storage unit depends on the type of wines you store as
well as the stopper style and even the bottle type. Some bottles
specifically block most UV rays, however proper storage is necessary
for the life of your wine. We've outlined the key facts to keep in mind
when you buy wine storage. We've also done some research and found
several great wine storage units based on customer reviews.
Darkness preserves the scent. UV rays from direct sunlight or
fluorescent bulbs cause wine to become light struck. Light struck wine
has a very unpleasant scent.
High humidity minimizes evaporation. Corks dry out quite easily in dry
conditions. Dry corks let the wine evaporate. Try to keep the humidity
around 70%. A quality hygrometer is very helpful in maintaining
humidity levels.
Corked wine bottles should be stored on their side. Storing corked wine
on its side prevents the cork from drying out. Store wine with the
label facing upward so you can more easily see any sediment that may
have formed.
Consistent temperature is a must. Temperatures of 75 degrees or higher
force wine through the cork while very low temperatures cause air to be
pulled back into the bottle. Neither circumstance is good for
maintaining the quality of your wine.
Movement affects taste. Some wines are very sensitive to movement. Once
your wine is safely in storage, move it as infrequently as possible.
Isolation maintains taste. Corked wine breathes, and surrounding smells
can taint the taste of any good wine. Good ventilation helps prevent
unsavory odors from entering the wine bottle.
Time doesn't improve all wines. Generally speaking, inexpensive wines
don't improve with age. Red wines may improve upon maturation, which
takes 2-10 years depending on several factors including the balance of
sugar, acid and tannin. Most white wines don’t improve past 3 years
whereas select chardonnays may continue to improve for 20 years.
Serving wine at the appropriate temperature improves the taste.
Temperature means everything when serving. Temperatures in Fahrenheit
should be as follows; Blush, 46 to 57; Sparkling and Champagne, 43 to
47; Light Reds, 55; and Deep Reds, 59 to 66.
Wine
Storage Options
Storage racks, coolers, refrigerators and cellars are the 4 preferred
wine storage methods.
Wine
Storage Racks
J.K. Adams Wine Storage Racks 40 Bottles: As suggested, this wooden
storage rack holds 40 bottles. It is crafted from Northeastern
kiln-dried lumber and may be expanded very easily. Some assembly is
required, as you can assemble them in any design you like. This unit
sells for $100 to $150.
Winsome 92144 Stackable Wooden Wine Storage Cube: These
espresso-colored wine storage racks hold up to 16 bottles. Again,
assembly is required and this unit sells for $40 to $50.
Wine
Storage Coolers and Refrigerators
Consistent temperature and humidity aren't difficult to control with
most coolers and refrigerators. They also help reduce mold and mildew
by circulating air around the bottles. Your decor must be taken into
consideration when choosing the best wine storage to fit your
individual needs. Sometimes a cooler or refrigerator simply won't give
the effect you desire.
Vinotemp VT-32BLK 32 Bottle Wine Refrigerator: This stylish black
refrigerator is 15" wide and holds up to 32 bottles. Front venting
allows it to be placed into your existing cabinetry to save floor space
or you may use it as a stand-alone unit. This unit has a natural
temperature fluctuation of 5 degrees to prevent excessive cycling. It
runs $370 to $500.
Haier HVCE15BBH: Several impressive features make this little
refrigerator the perfect choice for beginners. It may be used as a
stand-alone refrigerator or built into your cabinetry. The five storage
racks glide out for easy access. This unit sells for $450 to $750.
Wine Storage Cellars
Wine storage cellars are extremely attractive units in which to store
your wine. Most cellars are single-temperature refrigerated to keep
your wines at the perfect temperature. If you enjoy a variety of wines,
you may consider multiple cellars for perfect temperatures for each.
Le Cache: Le Cache takes contemporary to an entirely new level. Their
wine cellars maintain a cool temperature and 50% to 70% humidity. These
wine cellars feature hand-crafted doors and hand-stained finishes.
Interlocking all-wood racks ensure the proper fit for nearly all sizes
of bottle. They are ultra quiet and prices range from $1,000 to more
than $4,000.
Vinotemp: Vinotemp wine cellars are classy and contemporary. Intricate
glass detailing graces most of the doors. These units maintain
temperature and humidity levels to perfection. They sell from $1,000 to
around $3,000.
If you're looking for some wines at a great price to fill your cooler,
check out our Food
& Drink section for some options.
Comments? Suggestions? E-mail us at tips@dealhack.com.
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