What Should You Consider When Storing Wine?

Proper wine storage isn’t rocket science, but understanding the basics will help you protect your investment and ensure your wines age gracefully. Whether you’re storing a few bottles or building a serious collection, these fundamental principles apply.

The Four Pillars of Wine Storage

Temperature: Consistency is Key

The ideal storage temperature for wine is between 50-59°F (10-15°C), with 55°F (13°C) being the sweet spot. But here’s what matters more than hitting the exact number: consistency.

Temperature fluctuations are wine’s worst enemy. A wine stored at a steady 60°F will fare better than one that swings between 55-65°F daily. Why? Temperature changes cause the wine to expand and contract, potentially pushing the cork out or drawing air in.

What to avoid:

Locations near heating vents, radiators, or appliances
Attics, garages, or other spaces with dramatic temperature swings
Direct sunlight streaming through windows
Areas above 70°F (21°C) for extended periods

Humidity: Finding the Balance

Aim for 50-80% humidity, with 60-70% being ideal. This range keeps corks moist and flexible, creating a proper seal while preventing mold growth.

Too dry (below 50%): Corks dry out and shrink, allowing air to seep in and oxidize your wine.

Too humid (above 80%): Labels deteriorate and mold can develop, though this won’t hurt the wine itself.

Simple humidity solutions:

Place a shallow dish of water in your storage area
Use a small humidifier in very dry climates
Consider a wine fridge with built-in humidity control for serious collections

Light: Darkness is Your Friend

UV rays break down wine compounds and can create unpleasant flavors. This is why wine bottles are typically dark-colored glass.

Protection strategies:

Store in complete darkness when possible
Use LED lights with minimal UV output if you need lighting
Avoid fluorescent lights in storage areas
Keep bottles away from windows, even tinted ones

Vibration: Let Sleeping Wines Lie

Constant vibration can disturb sediment in wine and potentially affect aging. While minor vibrations won’t ruin your wine, it’s best to minimize them.

Common vibration sources to avoid:

Washing machines and dryers
HVAC systems
High-traffic areas with heavy footsteps
Railroad tracks or busy roads (seriously!)

Storage Position: Horizontal vs. Vertical

Horizontal storage keeps the cork moist by maintaining wine contact, preventing it from drying out. This is essential for wines you plan to age for more than a year.

Vertical storage is fine for wines you’ll drink within 6-12 months, but don’t make it a long-term habit.

Exception: Screwcap and synthetic cork wines can be stored upright without issues.

Air Quality and Ventilation

Wine can absorb odors through the cork, so storage areas should be:

Well-ventilated but not drafty
Free from strong odors (paint, cleaning chemicals, strong spices)
Clean and dry

Signs Your Storage Isn’t Working

Watch for these warning signs:

Corks pushing out of bottles
Wine seeping around cork edges
Labels falling off (too humid)
Corks cracking when opened (too dry)
Off flavors in wines you know should taste better

Quick Storage Assessment Checklist

✓ Temperature stays between 50-70°F with minimal fluctuation
✓ Humidity feels comfortable (not bone dry or musty)
✓ Area is dark or dimly lit
✓ No strong odors present
✓ Minimal vibration
✓ Bottles stored horizontally
✓ Easy access for checking on wines

Making the Most of What You Have

Remember, perfect storage conditions are ideal, but don’t let “perfect” be the enemy of “good enough.” A cool, dark closet often works better than an expensive wine fridge in a hot room.

The key is understanding these principles so you can make informed decisions about your specific situation. Once you know what your wines need, you can choose the right storage solution for your collection and budget.