Storing Wine

 

Store Bottles Sideways

To maintain an airtight seal that protects the wine from oxygen and outside aromas, a natural cork needs to stay moist and expanded. Store the bottle on its side, so the cork stays in constant contact with the wine. Avoid storing bottles upside down in their packing cases, because sediment can collect on the corks.

 

Note: Bottles with screw caps can stand up to being stood up.

 

Keep Wine Away From the Light

A wine that has been subjected to bright light for an extended period of time is referred to as light struck, and it will taste dull. Although most bottles are made from tinted glass, which offers some UV protection, there’s still a risk of exposure.

 

• Keep bottles out of direct sunlight.
• Store your wine low to the ground or in a cabinet to help protect it from overhead fluorescent lighting, which can also do damage.

 

If You Can’t Keep It Cool, Keep It Stable

• The ideal wine-storage temperature is 45° F for white wine and 55° F for red wine. If you’ll be opening the bottle within six months, a warmer room temperature is fine.
• Avoid storing bottles in pockets of high heat or in locations where temperatures fluctuate drastically, such as next to the dishwasher or stove.
• Above all, don’t stash a collection on top of the refrigerator. Overhead lighting and refrigerator exhaust give off a lot of heat, and the constant vibration can adversely affect taste.