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Storing a bottle of wine in the right conditions is essential for preserving its aromas, balance, and ageing potential. Here are our winemaker's tips for storing a bottle of wine at home.
Why is wine storage so important?
Wine is a living product. It evolves over time and reacts to its environment. Poor storage can alter its qualities: premature oxidation, loss of aromas, unbalanced taste, etc. Conversely, good conditions allow wine to improve or remain at its best until it is tasted.
Temperature: a key factor
The ideal storage temperature is between 50°F and 59°F, with as little variation as possible. Avoid at all costs:
- rooms that are too warm (kitchen, living room in summer)
- sudden changes in temperature
- storage near a heat source
A stable temperature is more important than a perfectly accurate temperature.
Protect wine from light
Light, especially natural or fluorescent light, can alter wine over time. UV rays cause aromas to deteriorate, particularly in white and rosé wines. Choose:
- a dark place
- a cellar
- or, as a last resort, a closed cupboard away from light
The position of the bottle
Bottles sealed with a cork should be stored lying down. This keeps the cork moist and prevents it from drying out, which could allow air to enter. Bottles with synthetic or screw caps can be stored upright, although there is no problem with storing them lying down.
Humidity: an often forgotten detail
Humidity between 60% and 80% is ideal to prevent the cork from drying out. At home, there's no need to aim for perfection: the main thing is to avoid environments that are too dry or excessively humid.
Where should you store wine if you don't have a cellar?
Good news: a cellar is not essential. Possible solutions include:
- a cool, dark cupboard
- a pantry
- under the stairs
- an electric wine cooler (ideal for apartments)
Avoid at all costs: the refrigerator for long-term storage, the garage (temperatures too unstable), shelves exposed to light.
If you have any doubts about storing one of our vintages, we will be happy to advise you during your visit to the estate or remotely.
See you soon at Domaine des Garances