Proper wine storage is important because it directly affects the taste, aroma, and quality of the wine in the long run. Many people wonder whether it is better to store wine in the refrigerator or at room temperature . This article will help you compare the two methods and provide tips on how to store wine to maintain its flavor for as long as possible.
How to store wine
How important is wine storage?
Storing wine isn’t just about finding a place to put the bottles, but also about considering important factors such as:
- Temperature : affects the fermentation process and the development of wine.
- Humidity : It affects the cork. If it is too dry, air can enter the bottle and spoil the wine.
- Light : UV light can destroy the wine's composition, altering its flavor.
- Placement : Wine bottles should be placed horizontally to keep the cork moist, reducing the chance of air seeping into the bottle.
Compare “storing wine in the refrigerator” vs. “storing wine at room temperature”
| factor | Store wine in the refrigerator | Store wine at room temperature. |
| temperature | 5-10°C (IDEAL FOR WHITE AND SPARKLING WINES) | 20-25°C (MAY BE TOO HIGH FOR RED WINE) |
| moisture | Below 50% can cause the cork to dry out. | Usually 50-70% is better for cork stoppers. |
| light | THE LED LIGHTS IN THE REFRIGERATOR DO NOT CONTAIN UV, BUT THE LIGHT FROM THE REFRIGERATOR MAY AFFECT THE WINE IN THE LONG TERM. | SUNLIGHT AND COMMON LIGHT BULBS MAY CONTAIN UV, WHICH CAN CAUSE WINE TO SPOIL FASTER. |
| Vibration | The refrigerator vibrates from the compressor. | There is no vibration like in a refrigerator. |
| Storage period | Suitable for short-term storage of wine (1-2 months). | It may be suitable for fast-drinking red wines. White or sparkling wines should not be stored. |
Tips for keeping wine fresh and flavorful for a long time
How to properly store wine in the refrigerator
- Use a dedicated wine fridge : If you need to store wine for a long period of time, a regular refrigerator may not be suitable. Instead, opt for a “wine cooler” that can control temperature and humidity.
- Store wine bottles horizontally : This prevents the cork from drying out and prevents air from entering and spoiling the wine.
- Don't store wine near the freezer : Too low a temperature can cause the wine to freeze and the bottle to break.
- Don't open and close the refrigerator too often : Rapid temperature changes can affect the quality of the wine.
How to best store wine at room temperature
- Choose a storage area that is protected from direct sunlight : Too much sunlight can cause your wine to deteriorate faster.
- Store in a constant temperature : Avoid rooms with frequent temperature changes, such as the kitchen or rooms near windows.
- Use a wine cellar : If you don't have a dedicated wine room, a wine cellar can help reduce the effects of temperature and light.
Bottom Line: What's the best way to store wine?
- White wine and sparkling wine : Should be stored in a wine refrigerator at 5-10°C.
- Red wine : Can be stored at room temperature, but should be stored at a constant temperature, not too hot (about 12-18°C).
- Opened wine : If you don't finish it, cork it tightly and refrigerate it. Drink it within 3-5 days.
- For those who need to store large quantities of wine , a wine cellar is a suitable option. For more information, please visit Wine Cellars.
For information on proper wine storage, please read more at Tips for Proper Wine Storage.
