Wine making and proper storage techniques have been around for centuries. The process of wine making is complicated and lengthy, but the process of storing the wine to maintain its quality and taste is just as important and difficult. It doesn't matter how good a wine is or how much of maturing potential it has, because unless stored correctly, these features may prove futile. It is generally thought that a cool place in the garage or the back of the basement is ideal for storage, but in reality very few places actually possess the perfect conditions for wine storage. Ideal storage conditions are cool (around 55 degrees Fahrenheit), not subject to extreme fluctuations in temperature, not too dry (to avoid the corks from drying out) and not too damp. A relative humidity of around 70% is generally recommended so as to keep the corks in good resilient condition and thereby prevent them from shrinking. More important than the actual temperature of wine storage is the degree and rapidity of temperature fluctuation that the wine is subjected to. A gradual change of temperature of ten or so degrees between seasons is not a matter of great concern. But this kind of fluctuation on a daily or weekly basis will cause damage to the wines and cause them to age prematurely. It is necessary that wines should be stored in an area free from harsh light and vibrations. Bright light can prematurely age a bottle of wine. Clear bottles are more susceptible to damage but ultra violet light can penetrate even dark-colored bottles. Once a bottle of wine is laid down, it should preferably stay there until it is opened. These days many wine collectors entrust their collection to a professional wine storage operator who has the knowledge and expertise required to ensure correct storage and to maintain the quality of the wine. |
