Wine 101: How to Store Wine to Make Sure it Stays Fresh and Tasty

Wine is a delicate and complex beverage that requires proper storage to maintain its quality and taste. Improper storage can cause wine to spoil, lose its flavor or get damaged, and no one wants to waste a good bottle of wine! In this post, we’ll go through some tips on how to store wine properly.

Temperature Matters

One of the most important factors to consider when storing wine is temperature. Ideally, wine should be stored at a temperature between 45-65°F. Keeping wine at a consistent temperature is important as fluctuations can damage the wine’s flavor and aroma. For instance, temperatures above 70°F can cause the wine to spoil, while temperatures that are too low can also affect the wine’s taste.

Keep the Wine Away from Light and Heat

Wine should be stored in a dark and cool place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators or ovens. Heat and light can cause wine to age prematurely and spoil its taste. A wine fridge is an ideal option for storing wine as it provides a cool dark environment that is perfect for storing wine. However, if you don’t have a wine fridge, a closet or basement can be a good storage option as they tend to be cooler and darker than other parts of the house.

Store Wine Bottles Horizontally

Storing wine bottles horizontally is another important aspect of wine storage. Keeping wine bottles horizontally ensures that the cork stays wet, preventing it from drying out and allowing air to enter the bottle. If air enters the bottle, it can cause oxidation, which can spoil the wine’s taste. So, if you want to keep your wine fresh and tasty, store the bottles horizontally.

Store Wine Away from Strong Smells

While you may love the smell of garlic or onions, wine certainly doesn't! Strong smells can permeate the cork of the wine, spoiling its taste and aroma. Therefore, it's important to store wine away from strong smells. Keep your wine in a separate area from items in your pantry or fridge that could potentially cause strong smells.

Final Thoughts

Storing wine properly is easy and will ensure that your bottles stay fresh and tasty for longer. Remember to keep wine bottles cool, away from direct sunlight or strong-smelling items, and store horziontally. By following these simple tips, you'll be able to enjoy every last sip of your wine!