Whether you tend to keen only a few bottles of wine for everyday drinking, or are a keen collector, you need to consider how best to care for your wine. Thoughtful planning will ensure that your wines fulfill their potential and are not damaged as a result of poor storage conditions.

Here are some tips: -

• Temperature
  A constant temperature is the most important storage factor for wine. The ideal is between 50°F (10°C) and 59°F (15°C). Slow, seasonal fluctuations do not matter, but extremes of temperature and sudden changes cause harm. Heat rises, so in any given space, the top will be warmer than the bottom. Whatever your storage conditions are, arrange your wine with whites and roses at the bottom and reds at the top.

• Humidity
  The ideal humidity for wine storage is between 60 and 80 per cent. If humidity levels go above this, you will not harm the wine inside the bottle, but the labels may be damaged by mold. If the humidity level is too low, the cork may dry out and shrink and the wine may evaporate.

• Light
  It is best to store wine in a dark place. Bright sunlight can go through glass and ruin the wine inside the bottle.

• Ventilation
  Allowing a small amount of air to circulate in the wine-storage area keeps it free from stale smells, which can affect the flavour of the wine. Strong smells will also affect your wine, so keep it away from paint, chemicals and strong-smelling food.
  
  

• Stability
  Keep your wines where they will not be disturbed by movement and vibration. Avoid storing near a washing machine or refrigerator.

• Position
  Bottles should be stored horizontally. This keeps the cork in contact with the wine, so that is remains moist which prevents oxidation.

Your Storage Options:

1. Wine Racks

If you are starting with a modest collection of wines or just want to store wine for everyday drinking, a simple rack will be adequate.

2. Wine Chillers

For a slightly larger collection, you may want to consider investing in a wine chiller. These are self-contained, temperature- and humidity-controlled units that you plug into an electrical outlet. These cabinets vary in size, holding from about 50 to 300 bottles. To purchase a wine chiller, please refer to our Promotions section.