The storage of wine can be broken down into two main components.
The wine must be stored in such a way as to allow relatively convenient locating
and access to any given bottle. The conditions in the given area should at
worst 'do no harm', and at best be conducive to the maturation process which
will allow the wine to reach its theoretical peak. Hopefully, a space can be
found to encompass both needs.
Not all wines will require special temperature controlled spaces.
Many whites and champagnes will not benefit from extended aging. Wines
purchased for immediate consumption, that have already reached their peaks, need
only be brought to serving temperature.
Although the chemical process of aging takes place best at 55 F.,
the wine will not be damaged upon touching 57 or for that matter 65. The
longer the required aging period, the more important the temperature will be.
Consistency is more important than the precise degree. If no suitable
naturally cool space is available, there are any number of active
temperature controlled devices available. These range from small 24 bottle(From $399)
refrigerator type devices to 600 bottle(to $2,500)environment controlled armoire. If
larger capacities are desired, prefabricated rooms which include the insulated
walls, racking, and cooling device, can be provided. those with greater
requirements can also convert almost any space into a temperature
controlled wine cellar.
When buying or designing a temperature controlled cellar, serious
thought should be given as to the future capacity requirements. You don't want
to outgrow your space in a year. It is generally more efficient, both in
cost and space, to buy one large unit rather than two smaller ones of equal
capacity. Sound level is another consideration. Units will vary from a
slightly discernible hum, to the sound of an air condition. Along with
location, this must be taken into account. this may not be an issue in
many locations, but a loud unit in the wrong space will certainly lessen the
appreciation of the well aged wine.
The type and style of racking should be considered as well. If one
buys wine by the case, space should be left for case stacking either on the
floor or on shelving. Those who have many of the same bottles can use bulk
bins, which can hold anywhere from 10 to 32 bottles per hole. It may be best
to try a limited section of this type at first since not all bottles stack
equally well. The most common choice is individual bottle racking. In this case
each bottle is held in its own hole so all bottles can be reached easily.
All wine racks are available in many formats and materials. A
discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of each type should be fully
explored with your supplier before purchase. We hope to see you at one of our wine and food parties in New York.
For Further Information about America's Leading Wine Storage Specialist click here
Or contact International Wine Accessories at:
1-214-349-6097
Outside New York State only 1-800-527-4072
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