Protect Your Wines by Investing in a Wine Refrigerator
If you are like most wine collectors – or just those who like to have a glass of wine with their meals – the purchase of a wine refrigerator is a good investment! Those folks who drink wine regularly know that wine tastes best when chilled to its appropriate temperature. Unfortunately, storing and chilling your wine collection in a home refrigerator is not a good idea because traditional refrigerators do not maintain proper temperature and humidity necessary for wine storage. Other options such as storage in a kitchen pantry or cabinet is not feasible since storage conditions can fluctuate which will cause the quality of the wine to deteriorate and cause spoilage. Another point to consider is that fine wine needs to be stored horizontally to keep the cork moist, and this is only possible with a special wine bottle refrigerator that allows this type of storage.
You might be unfamiliar with wine and want to purchase your first cooler, so let’s take a minute to discuss ideal storage temperatures for wine. The ideal storage temperature for storing wines is 55 to 58 degrees Fahrenheit. Optimum serving temperatures do vary a bit depending upon the type of wine: champagne and other sparkling wines 53-57 degrees F; light red wine 54-57 degrees F; rich red and full-bodied vintages 59-68 degrees F; light red wine 54-57 degrees F. As you choose your refrigerator, take into account these ideal storage temperatures and your unique wine preferences so you can pick out a cooler that is best for you.
We must also consider humidity when selecting a wine fridge. For maintaining the best taste for wine, humidity levels of approximately 70% RH are optimal. When stored at this humidity level, the cork will stay moist and oxygen is unlikely to seep into the bottle which can result in spoilage. Wine refrigerators are able to maintain a consistent humidity level which will properly store your wine collection.
Last but not least, another factor you must consider when choosing your wine refrigerator is your budget. If your budget is limited, consider purchasing a small wine cooler (such as a compact 12-bottle fridge) which is the ideal way to get started if you have only a few bottles you want to store. There are many models to choose from which will provide you years of enjoyment. Of course, if your wine investment/hobby is more serious and your budget is less restrained, you can select a refrigerator that will easily store 200 or more bottles.
Buying a wine refrigerator to preserve your fine wines and champagnes is a wise investment. Everyone from the beginner wine enthusiast to the seasoned wine taster will benefit from ideal wine storage.
Want to find out more about purchasing a wine refrigerator, then visit Beth Stoner’s site on how to choose the best wine cooler for your wine storage needs.
categories: wine refrigerator, wine, spirits, appliances, home
Tags: Alcohol, appliances, home, spirits, Wine, wine refrigerator