The holiday season is over, but if you’ve found yourself with a mountain of wine bottles (thanks to thoughtful gifts, or maybe just a bit too much holiday shopping), it’s time to think about how to store them properly. We’ve got a few simple tips to help you store your wine like a pro—ensuring it’s fresh, flavorful, and ready for the next celebration (or just a quiet evening in).
Here are the key things to keep in mind when storing wines effectively.
Temperature: Cool and Steady Does the Trick
Wines like consistency. Keeping the wine at the right temperature is probably the most important factor for its longevity. The best temperature for storing wine is around 13°C (55°F), which is often referred to as “cellar temperature.” If you don’t have a wine cellar (most of us don’t), find a cool, dark spot in your home. A basement or closet works just fine. What you’re trying to avoid are drastic temperature changes—don’t store your wine near heat sources or places that get too warm.
Why the 13°C (55°F) sweet spot?
Too hot and the wine will age faster than you’d like. Never keep your wine below -4ÂşC (25 °F) which will expose your wine to freezing, or above 20°C (68°F) which will accelerate your wine’s aging process. You want to make sure that the temperature is consistent as temperature fluctuations can cause the cork to expand and contract, allowing wine to seep out or air to seep in around it.
Humidity matters
Just like temperature, humidity plays a crucial role in keeping your wine in top shape. The ideal humidity level for wine storage is around 60-68%.
Why does it matter? If the humidity is too low, it can cause the cork to dry out, leading to air seepage and possibly ruining the wine. On the other hand, too much humidity can cause mold growth on the cork or labels, making your collection look less than pristine. The key is finding that sweet spot where the air is moist enough to keep the cork from shrinking but not so damp that it creates a breeding ground for unwanted fungi. A good balance ensures your wine stays well-preserved, so you can enjoy it at its best.
Keep your bottles horizontally
When it comes to corked bottles, the best position is on its side.
The reason? Storing wine on its side helps keep the cork moist, which is crucial for preventing air from sneaking in and spoiling the wine. This is a non-negotiable for bottles with corks—dry corks can lead to seepage and premature aging. But don’t sweat it too much if you’re dealing with screw-cap bottles. They’re a little more low-maintenance and can be stored standing up. Still, horizontal storage works best for preserving the cork and ensuring your wine ages gracefully.
Make sure to keep your bottles in a stable, undisturbed spot.
No sudden movements, no rolling them around—wine likes peace and quiet, much like that one friend who’s always trying to avoid the dance floor.
Wines don’t last forever: The length of time a wine can be kept depends on its type:
Red Wine: Many reds can last anywhere from two to ten years, and some high-quality bottles can even age for decades. (link to our wines)
White Wine: Most whites are best enjoyed within one to two years, though certain varieties like Chardonnay can be stored for five years or more. (link to our wines)
Rosé: Like white wines, rosé is typically at its best when consumed within a year or two. (link to our wines)
Sparkling Wine: Sparkling wines, such as Champagne, don’t improve with age and should be consumed within a year or two of purchase. (link to our wines).
How to Keep Your Wine Fresh After Opening
Once you open a bottle of wine, the clock starts ticking as air begins to slowly degrade its flavor. To help keep it fresh, cork the bottle or use a wine stopper, and store it in the fridge. Red wines can handle a day or two at room temperature, but after that, they should also be chilled. Even with proper storage, most wines will only stay at their best for three to five days once opened. If you’re hoping to keep your wine for a longer stretch, consider investing in a wine preservation system or vacuum pump to slow down the aging process and preserve its quality.
