How to store wine at home? Practical tips
Storing wine properly is essential to preserving its properties and flavor. Many common mistakes can end up ruining a good bottle. Below, we offer some basic tips that will help you enjoy each wine in the best possible way.
How to store young and aged wines?
When preserving these types of wine, several key factors should be considered, as explained below.
Temperature
The place where you store your bottle should have a temperature between 9°C and 17°C (48°F – 63°F). It’s important to choose a space that is not subject to sudden temperature changes, as this can alter the wine. There are specialized wine racks that allow you to set a fixed temperature. If you don’t have one, follow the other recommendations to find the most suitable storage spot.
Humidity
This is perhaps the most challenging factor to control. Ideally, humidity should be maintained at around 50%, though levels up to 80% won’t harm the wine. To adjust humidity levels, consider using a humidifier or dehumidifier. In some cases, placing a dry sponge in a humid environment or a container of water in a dry space can help regulate conditions.
We recommend investing in an electronic weather station to monitor temperature and humidity levels at all times. This will help you take the necessary steps to ensure optimal preservation.
Light
It is crucial to keep wine away from direct sunlight. While wine bottles are made with dark glass to protect the contents from light, excessive brightness can still have undesirable effects on the wine. Choose a dimly lit or dark storage area.
Position
Experts have differing opinions on the ideal storage position, and it often depends on how soon you plan to drink the wine.
- If you will consume the bottle within three days, you can store it upright.
- Otherwise, store it horizontally to keep the cork moist and prevent it from drying out.
- When serving, use a decanter to remove any sediment that may have accumulated in the bottle.
Some enologists recommend:
- Upright position for young and sparkling wines.
- Horizontal position for aged wines (Crianzas, Reservas, and Gran Reservas).
Storage Time
Wine is a living product that continuously evolves. Its lifespan depends on its type and intended aging process.
- Young wines and rosés: Best consumed within a year of purchase. However, some wines, like PRADOREY Rosado Fermentado en Barrica, can be stored for up to three years without losing quality. If you’re a true wine lover, try aging it slightly longer to explore its complexity.
- Sparkling wines and Cava: Typically drinkable for up to three years after purchase. However, high-quality Champagne (Millesimé, not a blend of vintages) can last much longer due to its acidity level.
Over time, wines develop complexity while losing some of their initial freshness. The ideal time to drink a wine is whenever you enjoy it most. Some people prefer wines with more “vibrancy,” while others appreciate smoother, velvety textures. Have you discovered your preferred style yet?
How to store Reserva, Gran Reserva, and premium wines?
These wines require special care, as each bottle is an investment. Here’s how to ensure optimal storage:
- Create a dedicated storage space: A wine rack is a great option, or alternatively, find a piece of furniture or a space that meets the recommended humidity, temperature, and light conditions.
- Monitor storage conditions closely: Pay attention to ambient temperature, humidity levels, and even bottle labels—too little humidity can cause labels to peel off, while excessive humidity may wrinkle them. Check your collection weekly for the best results.
- Long-term storage: Some fine wines can be preserved for 30, 40, or even 50 years. Your commitment to proper care will ensure that, when the time comes, you can fully enjoy the wine’s flavors and aromas.
What should you avoid when storing wine at home?
- Storing wine in the fridge: While the fridge protects against sunlight and maintains a stable temperature, continuous cold exposure can negatively affect wine development. Additionally, the presence of other foods can lead to contamination and alter the wine’s taste.
- Using a barrel or homemade cask: If you purchase bulk wine, this might work. However, for bottled wine, transferring it to a barrel will only accelerate aging under uncontrolled conditions, altering its original flavor.
- Leaving wine in its cardboard box: Even in a suitable storage area, cardboard is sensitive to external factors like humidity and heat, which could affect the wine. It’s best to recycle the box and store the bottles properly.
- Using an unused fireplace or pantry: These areas can lead to significant temperature and humidity fluctuations, impacting the wine’s quality. They are also difficult spaces to control for light exposure and environmental conditions.
We hope these tips help you store your wine properly. It’s up to you to put them into practice and enjoy every glass in the comfort of your home. Cheers! 🍷
