Properly storing wine at home allows you to preserve its flavor, aroma, and overall quality.Wine is one of those beverages that continues to develop and improve in the bottle, and if stored incorrectly, it simply oxidizes over time, loses its distinct characteristics, and spoils.
So, Vino&Vino has selected for you several important wine storage tips from sommeliers so that you can enjoy your drink for a longer time.
Let’s go over the tips…
1. Wine Storage Temperature
When storing wine, pay attention to maintaining a stable temperature between 7 - 18°C (45–64°F), and keep in mind that some types of wine need to be stored at 13 - 16°C (55 - 60°F). For example: Shiraz, Barolo, Pinot Noir.
Avoid temperature fluctuations. Often, changes in temperature loosen, expand, or compress the wine cork, allowing air to enter the bottle. And due to the air, the wine simply spoils.
Never store wine in hot or high-temperature conditions, such as above the refrigerator or near a window. High temperatures cause wine to age faster and can completely ruin it.
2. Maintain Humidity
Yes, humidity is necessary when storing wine. Try to keep the wine at 65 - 70% humidity level. This way, the corks won’t dry out and will prevent air from getting in.
Although humidity is essential, be cautious. Too much humidity can cause mold, while too little will dry out the corks. To maintain the necessary humidity level, you can use a hygrometer and check it regularly to avoid extremes.
3․ Store Bottles Horizontally
You’ve probably seen in different movies how characters store their wine collections horizontally, at an angle. Well, it’s not just for decoration, it’s a proper method for wine storage. The secret is that this way the cork stays moist over time and doesn’t dry out.
4․ Avoid Lighted Areas and Store Wine in Stable Places
Store wine in a dark place, as ultraviolet rays can damage the drink and cause unpleasant odors. Also, you should choose a place where the wine stays steady, such as away from washing machine vibrations, otherwise the wine’s sediment can be disturbed, disrupting the aging process.
How long can you store wine?
The longevity of a wine depends on its type, quality, and storage conditions. For example:
Red Wines
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Cabernet Sauvignon: 7 - 10 years
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Merlot: 3 - 5 years
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Pinot Noir: 2 - 5 years
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Zinfandel: 2 - 5 years
White Wines
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Chardonnay: 2 - 5 years (longer if oaked)
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Sauvignon Blanc: 1 - 3 years
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Riesling: 3 - 5 years
Rosé Wines
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Rosé: 1 - 2 years
Sparkling Wines
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Non-Vintage (NV): 1 - 3 years
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Vintage: 5 - 10 years
Dessert Wines
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Port, Sauternes: 10 - 20+ years
Fortified (Liqueur) Wines
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Sherry, Madeira: 10 - 50+ years
With this data, you can understand that the wine has been preserved in perfect conditions - a dark, cool, and stable environment.
How Long You Can Keep Opened Wine
Opened wines lose their freshness and quality much more quickly. From oxidation to changes in aroma and flavor, each type of wine has its own shelf life depending on its composition, alcohol and sugar content, and storage conditions.
Red Wine: 3 - 5 days
If the cork is put back on and the wine is stored in a cool place (up to 18°C without refrigeration), it can retain its flavor and aroma for 3 - 5 days. After that, the wine starts to oxidize and loses its fruity and spicy notes. So, when storing red wine, first and foremost consider its condition.
White or Rosé Wine: 3 - 5 days
White and rosé wines stored in the fridge usually last up to 5 days. After the first days, they may lose their freshness and acidity, but can still be used with meals
Sparkling Wine: 1 - 3 days
Sparkling wines, such as champagne, are very sensitive to air exposure. If sealed with a cork and stored in the fridge, they can retain their effervescence for up to 3 days. Without a proper stopper, they lose their carbonation and freshness very quickly.
So, storing wine correctly means being consistent and regularly checking the environment’s temperature, lighting, humidity, etc. With simple steps, you can extend the life of your favorite drinks. And you can purchase them at Vino&Vino, a specialized alcohol store.
