5 essential rules of wine storage
A fine wine just keeps getting better with age, but not if you don’t store it correctly. Collectors know that improper storage can lead to the loss of a costly, cherished bottle, but for those who aren’t as clued-in, here are some storage musts when it comes to vino.
1. Stable temperature between 12°C – 14°C
If wine were a superhero, heat would be a super villain, so keep it cool! Daily and weekly temperature fluctuations denature your wines. In particular, temperatures above 25°C will ruin wine within a couple of weeks and create ‘spoiled fruit’ flavours.
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2. Humidity above 50%
Dry air makes for dry corks. Levels lower than 50% cause corks to dry out and shrink, allowing damaging air into the wine, creating oxidation and off-odours. Don’t go for conditions that are too damp, though, or you’ll risk mould, which is best reserved for cheese and not your vino.
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3. Dark storage area
As with humans, too much exposure to UV light can lead to premature ageing. All light should be avoided, really, but UV in particular: it creates hydrogen sulphide compounds in wine, plus negatively affects the tannins and the colour of your wine.
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4. No vibrations
Imperceptible vibrations prematurely deteriorate wine by speeding up chemical reactions and ageing. Slight vibrations are not so bad in the short-term but it’s obviously best not to risk it at all.
5. Airflow
Lack of appropriate ventilation and noticeable changes in the air lead to wine cellars becoming stale and mouldy.
ILVE’s wine cellars ensure your wines are stored in the ideal cellaring conditions. The conditions outlined above can be difficult to find naturally in the home, though the ILVE range is built to accommodate the long-term storage of wine. Key features include an internal white LED light and electronic control panel, as well as wooden shelves that can easily house your ‘ready-to-drink’ or matured option.
