Why Wine Storage and Cellaring is of Upmost Importance for your Wines.
Wine storage is a critical factor in the ageing of wine. Proper storage conditions can greatly enhance the quality and taste of a wine, while improper storage can significantly harm it. There are several important factors to consider when storing wine, including temperature, humidity, light exposure, and stability. By carefully controlling these factors, wine collectors can ensure that their wines age to their full potential and are able to enjoy their rich flavours and complexities for many years to come.
Temperature is one of the most important factors to consider when storing wine. Ideal wine storage temperatures range from 10-18C, with 14C being considered the optimal temperature for long-term storage. High temperatures can cause wine to deteriorate faster, and the heat can cause the wine to become overly acidic and lose its aroma and flavour. On the other hand, low temperatures can slow down the ageing process and reduce the wine’s ability to develop over time. Therefore, it is important to store wine in a cool, dark place that is, most importantly, free from temperature fluctuations.
Humidity – wine should be stored in a location that has a relative humidity of between 50-80%, with 70% being considered ideal. Too much humidity can cause mould and mildew to grow on the wine’s label and cork, which can cause the wine to spoil and develop an unpleasant taste. Too little humidity can cause the cork to dry out, allowing air into the bottle and causing the wine to spoil.
Light exposure – light, particularly sunlight, can cause wine to deteriorate and spoil. UV rays can cause the wine to become dull and lose its aroma and flavour, while visible light can cause the wine to become oxidized and develop an off-taste. Therefore, it is important to store wine in a location that is free from light exposure, such as a wine cellar or a wine refrigerator.
Vibration/stability – wine should be stored in a location that is free from vibration and movement, as these factors can cause the wine to become agitated and develop an off-taste by unsettling the delicate components present in wine. It is also important to store wine in a location that is free from strong odours, as these can affect the wine’s overall aroma and flavour.
Proper wine storage is an investment in the longevity and quality of your wine, and it is well worth the effort and investment to ensure that your wine is stored correctly.