Have you found a special bottle of wine or are you planning to build up a small collection? It is all the more important to store the wine correctly so that it retains its quality and even gains in complexity over the years. It is important to observe a few basic storage conditions.
Storing wine: The most important basics
Wine is a sensitive product and reacts strongly to external influences. The ideal storage temperature is between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius. You should avoid temperature fluctuations, as these can disrupt the ageing process. High temperatures accelerate the ageing of the wine, while cold temperatures have a negative effect on its structure.
The Humidity plays an important role. Between 50 and 80 percent prevents the cork from drying out and air from getting into the bottle. You should also protect the wine from Light UV rays can destroy the aromas. A dark storage place or a wine cabinet are therefore ideal. For bottles with natural corks, always store them lying flatso that the cork remains moist and seals tightly. Bottles with screw caps or plastic corks can also be stored upright.
Practical tips for storing wine at home
No wine cellar? No problem! A Wine fridge is a practical alternative, especially in smaller apartments. These appliances are available in various sizes and ensure constant storage conditions. A cool basement room or a dark storage cupboard are also suitable options.
You may also be interested in these articles:
However, avoid strong odors in the vicinity of the warehouse, as the cork can absorb foreign aromas. Also Vibrations can have a negative impact on the quality of the wine, which is why a quiet storage area is crucial. Practical solutions such as wooden or metal wine racks not only help with safe storage, but also look decorative.
How long should you store wine?
Not everyone Wine is suitable for long-term storage. Light white wines, rosés and simple red wines are mostly intended for drinking in the near future. They lose their fresh character if stored for too long. Strong red wines or noble sweet varieties such as port and ice wine, on the other hand, can gain in complexity and benefit from a long ageing process.
Find out in advance about the shelf life of your wine – the optimum storage time varies depending on the variety. A good retailer or the label description often provides helpful information.
What happens to wine during storage?
During maturation, the wine continues to develop its aromas. The Tannins, acids and sugars play a central role and change over time. Well-stored wines often develop aromas that were not present when fresh. However, the content of sensitive nutrients, such as vitamin Cduring storage.
The principle of correct storage does not only apply to wine: foods such as olive oil or coffee also benefit from cool, dark storage. With a well-thought-out storage strategy, you can not only store your wine in the best possible way, but also enjoy other products for longer.
Conclusion: Clever wine storage and enjoyment
With the right conditions, you can store your wine optimally and prepare it perfectly for that special moment. Ensure the right temperatures, constant humidity and a dark storage area. Whether it’s a wine cellar, fridge or wine rack – there is a solution for every living situation. This way, your wine will wait patiently for the perfect occasion and remain a real treat until then.
Checklist: Storing wine made easy
- Perfect temperature: Storage temperature between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius.
- Avoid light: Dark places or a wine cabinet protect against UV rays.
- Note the humidity: 50-80 percent to keep natural corks elastic.
- Lying or standing: Store natural cork bottles horizontally, screw caps vertically.
- No vibrations: Keep wine quiet and odor-free.
This article was created partly with machine support and carefully checked by the editorial team before publication.
