Wine Storage: Tips for the perfect, sustainable pleasure

The right temperature: not too warm, not too cold

Temperature is a decisive factor in the storage of wine. The ideal storage temperature for wine is between 10 and 16 degrees Celsius. A higher temperature accelerates the ageing process of the wine, which can lead to a loss of quality. Too low a temperature can result in the wine not maturing properly and the cork drying out.

The right place: Dark and quiet

The ideal place to store wine should be dark, quiet and without strong odours. Light can affect the taste of the wine and cause it to age more quickly. Vibrations can also affect the wine, so the storage room should be as quiet as possible.

The right angle: store the wine lying down

Wine bottles should always be stored horizontally to ensure that the cork remains moist. Dry corks can cause air to enter the bottle, which can affect the taste and quality of the wine.

Floors and shelves: Uniform temperature and humidity

Shelves and shelves should be made of materials that maintain an even temperature and humidity. Shelves made of wood or metal are ideal for storing wine. Avoid shelves made of plastic or rubber as they can absorb odours.

The storage period: not every wine is suitable for long-term storage

Not all wines are suitable for long-term storage. It is important to follow the recommendations of the winery or producer. Most white and rosé wines are intended for short-term enjoyment and should be enjoyed within 1-3 years of purchase. Red wines usually have a longer shelf life and can be stored between 3 and 10 years.

Lighting conditions

Besides the right storage temperature, light also plays an important role. Wine should always be protected from direct sunlight, as UV light can affect the aromas and colour of the wine. It is therefore best to store wine in a dark room or cupboard.

Humidity

Humidity is also an important factor in wine storage. If the air is too dry, the cork can dry out and air can get into the bottle, which can oxidise the wine and make it undrinkable. If the humidity is too high, on the other hand, mould and other undesirable microorganisms can form. A relative humidity of about 70% is therefore ideal for wine storage.

Storage period

Not all wines are suitable for long-term storage. Most wines are intended for immediate consumption or for storage of up to 5 years. Only a few wines, such as Bordeaux or Barolo, are suitable for storage for several decades. Most wines lose their aroma and freshness over time, so you should find out whether a wine is suitable for longer storage before buying it.

Storage after opening

Even after opening a wine bottle, it is important to store the wine properly to protect it from oxidation. It is best to keep the wine sealed in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 days. An alternative is to use a special wine stopper that minimises the wine's contact with oxygen.

In summary, the following points should be observed for optimal wine storage:

- Storage temperature between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius.
- Dark storage without direct sunlight
- Relative humidity of about 70%
- Check wines for long-term storage before purchase
- After opening, store in a cool and sealed place and consume within 2-3 days or use a special wine stopper