Proven Wine Storage Hacks A New Collector Can Rely On
As a wine lover, you will probably want to build a collection at some point. More than drinking from your bottles, you will love flaunting them. After all, a wine collection is surely a great way to impress your friends and family. But collecting luxe brands is a hefty financial commitment. You may end up with a stock worth thousands sooner than you imagine. So it is crucial to understand the storage essentials to preserve your valuable drinks over the years. Luckily, wine storage need not be stressful, as a little caution is enough to keep the quality and taste intact. Let us share some proven hacks a new collector can rely on.
Choose the appropriate location
Although you need not build a cellar in your home, choosing an appropriate storage location is essential. As a newbie, you can even repurpose a closet and use it as a makeshift cellar. But you will eventually need a larger space as your collection grows over time. Look for privacy because you will probably not want everyone to see your valuables. Also, ensure the area is off-limits for kids and pets, so avoid displaying the bottles in a living room cabinet.
Ensure optimal lighting
Besides finding a private area for your collection, you must ensure optimal lighting. Essentially, minimize the exposure to light, both natural and artificial, because it can ruin your wine. Also, hash light from bulbs can cause the labels to fade over time. Opt for incandescent bulbs instead of fluorescent ones. A dark corner is ideal for housing the bottles because it prevents unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight.
Invest in wine racks
Having an apt space to store your precious bottles is only half the work. Organizing them neatly is equally helpful as it enables you to segregate them and easily access the products you want. Look for the best wine racks that offer versatility and durability for long-term storage. You can check options in wood and metal and opt for different styles like wall-mounted or table-top according to your preference and requirements.
Maintain an optimal temperature
Temperature is another wine storage factor beginners must understand because it ensures the preservation of wine quality, taste, and aroma over the years. Heat can ruin the drink, so maintain a temperature in the range of 45 degrees to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. You should not have qualms about investing in a top-quality cooling system because your wines are worth a fortune financially and sentimentally. But make sure that the bottles do not freeze.
Pay attention to humidity levels
Humidity is another factor to control for wine preservation. Ideally, a humidity of about 70 percent is optimal for wine storage. But keeping it between 50 and 80 percent is good enough. Keep an eye on the seasonal changes in humidity and act accordingly. You can install a dehumidifier in the cellar if the humidity is too high. Conversely, placing a pan of water in the storage area helps to combat low humidity.
Wine collection may seem like a lot of work to a beginner because the drink is delicate and precious. But following these essentials is a good start. You can learn the ropes and master the skill over time.