Almost all wine drinkers are in a real quandary when it comes to wine storage. Following proper wine storage methods is essential for those who purchase costly wines and wish to enjoy the real taste while uncorking. Wine storage isn’t gameplay but an art. Though you’re an oenophile, knowing the picture-perfect way of storing wines for years reaps you the fresh taste as expected. Let us run through the 5 Dos and Don’ts of wine storage and help our audience obtain the best wine.
Do’s
- Do follow the right temperature
Wines are the best companion as they help you switch off from stressful schedules and relax for a while. Henceforth following proper wine storage temperature is a key aspect. Wines do not appreciate temperature variations, so storing them at 45-65 degrees Fahrenheit works wonders. Targeting 50 to 58 degrees offers the wine a better chance to reveal itself.
- Do stock the wine bottle on its side
Stocking the wine bottle upright is a Himalayan blunder all wine lovers make. However, setting aside wines in this fashion is usual and convenient, but the consistency and taste of the wine turn ruinous. Upright storage permits the cork drying; henceforth, laying the wine bottle towards the side is the right choice. As the cork dries, air can creep in, resulting in instant oxidation. Sideways storage maintains a moist cork averting the above condition.
- Do switch off the lights
Do you know why wine comes in coloured bottles? Lights, specifically the sun’s UV radiation, negatively impact wine quality, resulting in premature aging. It is the dark glass that shields the wine from light exposure. A good piece of advice is to switch lights off and store wine bottles isolated from sunlight. Fluorescent light effuses very minimal amounts of UV lights; hence, switching to incandescent bulbs in wine storage areas is the best shot.
- Do clean wine cellars
A wine cellar is an ideal place for piling up wine bottles. Though appropriate humidity and temperature are primary features in storing wines, maintaining a clean wine cellar is equally important. Wine enthusiasts get the opportunity to eye the wine status and guard them by cleaning the cellars twice a year. Get the balls rolling by manually removing the bottles, dusting them, and checking for moulds. Seek the help of a professional and clean the wine barrel periodically with specialized equipment.
- Do opt for a wine cooler
Though wine lovers choose multiple options for wine storage, such as dark basements or dry closets, the temperature is always uncertain and not up to par. A wine cooler is an excellent option for minimal storage of wines. The best feature about these coolers is their consistent temperature of 55 F for perfect wine storage. Moreover, these units have great humidity controls, UV shielding glass, and many temperature zones. Off-site wine storage is another alternative for one desiring to store wine for the long term.
Don’ts
- Don’t disturb wine often after storage
Once the wine bottles are set for storage, avoid disturbing them often. The storage period of wines is a golden period as many things happen, and disturbing the bottles alters the chemical composition. A wine bottle is a gold mine of plentiful elements and mandates prime storage factors for extraordinary taste. Apart from the quarter-turn each month, the wine bottle should not be disturbed. The main purpose of wine storage is for taste, and disturbing it may hinder its taste.
- Don’t stock wine bottles in the refrigerator
Stocking wine bottles on top of the refrigerator is an effortless way of storing wines. Though it seems to be a logical place for many, you would be heading south with the storage option. Primarily a refrigerator gives off more vibrations during compressor cycles, water dispensing and ice-making, which aren’t favourable for wine storage. Secondly, a refrigerator releases heat to maintain chillness inside, which impacts the wine storage on top. Finally, refrigerators are usually positioned near lights which release heat and lead to the premature aging of wines.
- Don’t store table wine for more years
While debating about wines, it is unessential to store table wines for more than two years. The wines purchased from grocery shops are table wines for immediate consumption, which don’t require an adequate storage period for years. A period of two years is ample for table wines that lose their authentic taste when stored for long years. Luxury and premium wines are the ones that need years of storage.
- Don’t refrigerate
Do not have the thought of refrigerating wines like other drinks as the refrigerator temperature is too cold for wines. Wines taste displeasing and damaging as the cork shrinks, paving the way for air into the bottle. It would also be great to avert storing wines in freezers and unheated garages as the liquid expands while freezing. Moreover, freezing temperatures break the bottle or push the cork leaving the place in a mess. However, a few hours of chilled wines for ones who wish to bend an elbow allow you to enjoy the occasion to the fullest.
- Don’t shake the wine bottle
Experts and wine enthusiasts agree that shaking wine bottles could open doors for chemical reactions that hinder the wine taste. It is astounding to know that few wine lovers also agonize about nearby electronic vibrations. There are more possibilities for old wines to stir up the sediments during vibration leading to minimal effect. However, it is better to travel with wine, but best to avert shaking the wine during the drink.
Conclusion
Wine is a wonderful treat amongst friends and family. Though you’re a wine lover, knowing the correct procedure and ways of storage reaps excellent taste. Run through the pointers above and invest dedication plus hard work for better storage of costly wines. To enjoy the flavour, aroma, and perfect taste of wines knowing the do’s and don’ts during wine storage is mandatory. Check the above pointers and remember them during the wine storage process.
