How to Store Wine: Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Wine Fresh and Delicious
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or you simply enjoy a nice glass of wine every now and then, it’s important to know how to store your wine properly. Proper wine storage can help preserve its taste and aroma, keeping it fresh and delicious for longer. In this article, we’ll provide you with some useful tips and tricks to store your wine to perfection.
Store wine in the right temperature
Temperature is critical when it comes to storing wine. Ideally, you should store your wine between 45°F and 65°F (7°C to 18°C) to ensure its quality remains intact. If the temperature is too hot, the wine will age too quickly, losing its flavor and aroma. On the other hand, if the temperature is too cold, the wine will not age properly, and it may even freeze and expand, damaging the cork.
Store wine in dark places
Wine is made up of organic compounds that are photosensitive, meaning they can be damaged by exposure to light. To prevent this from happening, store your wine in a dark place, away from direct sunlight or fluorescent light. If you can’t store your wine in a completely dark environment, wrap it in a cloth to protect it from UV light.
Store wine bottles horizontally
Storing your wine bottles horizontally allows the cork to stay in contact with the wine, preventing it from drying out. A dry cork can let air into the bottle, which can spoil the wine. By storing the wine horizontally, you’ll also help prevent sediment from settling at the bottom of the bottle, which can affect the taste of the wine.
Keep wine away from strong odors
Wine can easily absorb strong odors, which can ruin its taste and aroma. To prevent this from happening, store your wine away from strong-smelling foods, cleaning products, or other substances that could compromise its taste.
Control the humidity
The ideal humidity level for storing wine is between 50-80%. High humidity levels can promote mold, which can damage the cork or label. In contrast, low humidity levels can cause the cork to dry out, allowing air into the bottle. If you live in a dry area, place a humidifier near your wine collection to maintain the proper humidity level.
Keep track of dates
Lastly, make sure you keep track of your wine’s expiration dates. Not all wine is meant to be aged, and some varietals will start to lose their flavor after a certain period. If you’re unsure, ask the seller or consult a wine expert for advice on when to drink your wine.
In conclusion, storing wine properly requires some effort, but it’s well worth it to preserve the flavor, aroma, and quality of your wine. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be sure to enjoy delicious wine for years to come.