‘How to properly store wine at home?’
How to properly store wine at home?
Storing wine at home is an art that requires an understanding of a few basic principles,
so that the bottles retain their quality for longer.
Whether you are a wine lover with an extensive collection,
or you just like to enjoy an occasional glass, it’s worth knowing a few key rules.
1 Temperature matters
The most important factor affecting the quality of stored wine is the temperature.
The optimum is around 12-15°C.
Too high a temperature can accelerate the ageing process of the wine,
which will affect the taste and aroma. Too low, on the other hand, can inhibit the development of the wine.
It is advisable to avoid sudden fluctuations in temperature, which can affect the quality of the wine.
2 – Light – the enemy of wine
Prolonged exposure of wine to light, especially sunlight,
can destroy its chemical structure, leading to a loss of flavour.
It is best to store wine in a dark place or in dark glass bottles,
which protect it from UV rays.
- air humidity
Air that is too dry can cause the corks to dry out and the wine to be exposed to the air,
which speeds up the oxidation process. A humidity level of 60-70% is the optimum level,
that will keep the corks in good condition and maintain the quality of the wine.
- bottle position
Wine bottles should be stored horizontally, especially those closed with a cork.
This keeps the cork moist, which prevents it from drying out and air from entering the bottle.
5 No vibration
Vibrations can interfere with the maturation process of wine.
Therefore, it is a good idea to avoid storing bottles in places exposed to vibrations,
such as fridges or household appliances.
In summary, the right conditions for storing wine –
stable temperature, darkness, humidity and no vibrations – are the key to preserving its taste and aroma for a long time.
