5 Elements Of The Right Environment For Wine Storage

Your wine collection represents not only a financial investment but also often a part of history. So, protecting it with the right environment is vital. What environmental factors should you carefully consider when crafting a private wine storage area? Here are five of the most important. 

1. Avoid Too Much Heat. Wines don't like high temperatures. Too much heat — through the ambient temperature of the air or such things as direct sunlight — can cause the flavors and aromas in the wine to flatten and become muted. Your wine storage area, then, should be just a little cooler than most people like their rooms.  

2. Avoid Too Much Cold. Of course, you don't want to go overboard with cold temperatures when storing wine either. Avoid placing bottles in a regular old refrigerator, as these are designed for food storage, which needs to be closer to freezing than is good for wine. If you use an uncontrolled cold environment (like a basement), beware of drops in temperature. Wine should never be at risk of forming ice crystals. 

3. Choose Light Carefully. The lighting around bottles of wine affects the quality of the vintage. This is because ultraviolet rays cause premature aging and may even create deterioration. Direct sunlight is the most common source of dangerous UV rays, but even fluorescent lights can cause problems. Choose your lighting carefully and in consultation with wine professionals. 

4. Be Cautious About Humidity. Humidity is more likely to affect the wine's storage medium and corks rather than the vintage itself. The key to good humidity control is avoiding extremes. An area that's too humid could encourage mold growth. One that is too dry may damage corks and allow air inside bottles. But you can have a wide range of humidity levels that remain safe. 

5. Keep Things Calm. Wine also likes to be calm and still. Moving it around too much disrupts sediments and affects chemical reactions. Bottles, then, should be stored in one place for long periods and not subjected to unnecessary transportation or high vibrations (such as those from nearby airports or trains). While you don't want to be overly paranoid about movement, only do what's necessary. 

Want more tips for creating an ideal environment for wine? By consulting with a professional, you can develop a system that keeps wines of all ages and types happy — while also making you as the investor and owner happy too. Make an appointment today to get started.