The Perfect Temperature for Wine Storage
Properly storing wine can add to its longevity, deter spoilage and ensure taste retention. In addition to lighting and humidity, proper storage temperatures are imperative to preserving both red and white wines. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Temperature Recommendations
-
As a rule, wine keeps best at temperatures between 33 degrees (barely above freezing) and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmer the conditions, the quicker the wine matures. Ideal temperatures are between 45 degrees and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Whatever acceptable temperature is established, it should remain constant. The worst enemy of wine is fluctuating temperature.
Humidity Effects
-
Keep humidity between 60 and 70 percent to keep moisture from leaking out through the cork and causing the wine to evaporate. Humidity at levels above 70 percent encourage the growth of mold or other microorganisms that make the wine age too fast or sometimes spoil it for consumption.
-
Lighting Considerations
-
Although most wine is packaged in colored bottles to protect it from the harmful effects of light, it should still be stored in a dark place and never exposed to direct sunlight.
-
References
- Photo Credit Maria Toutoudaki/Photodisc/Getty Images
