29
Temperature is ultimately the most
important factor. The optimum temperature
for storing wine is between 10–12°C,
but any constant temperature within
5–18
°C is acceptable. Any change in
temperature on a daily or weekly basis can
have a detrimental effect on the wine and
cause it to age prematurely.
If wines are kept at too high a temperature
they will age faster, whereas if wines are
stored at too cold a temperature, deposits
will develop. This is why a constant
temperature is vital.
Wine conditioning units
These appliances are ideal for both
long-term and short-term storage, and offer
separate temperature zones to ensure your
red, rosé and white wines are all served at
just the right temperature, time after time.
They feature a tinted, tempered glass door
offering protection from UV light and have
interior lighting enabling a clear view of the
contents. Other features include an active
charcoal filter in each zone and telescopic
wooden shelves.
Corks should always be kept moist,
therefore storing bottles in a humid
environment prevents them from drying out
and shrinking. If corks are allowed to dry
out, they lose their elasticity and allow air to
enter the wine affecting the overall taste.
Storing bottles horizontally is also
important as it allows the wine to remain in
contact with the cork, again helping to keep
the corks moist.
Extraneous smells and light can also be
harmful to wine. Any unwanted smells can
enter the wine through the cork,
contaminating it, and ultraviolet light may
give wine an unpleasant aroma. Therefore
a proper ventilation system, such as an
active charcoal filter which can be found in
all our wine storage appliances, is very
important in helping to retain the overall
taste of the wine. A solid door or a glass
door, which protects from UV light is also a
necessity.
Anyone who appreciates good wine will know how important it is to store it in the right way. Wine is alive! And as such reacts either
positively or negatively to its environment. Certain conditions need to be met in order for a wine to either mature properly or keep without
spoiling.
At a glance temperature guide to storing your favourite wines:
8
°C
Simple white wines and sparkling wines
10
°C
Light white wines and champagne
12
°C
Complex, heavy white wines, rosé and light red wines
14
°C
Simple, young red wines
16
°C
Strong, young red wines
18
°C
Heavy, mature red wines
