Keep it Cool
Nothing will ruin your wine faster than heat. Anything higher than 70° will age your wine more quickly than is generally desirable. If your storage gets much warmer than that, your wine may end up "cooked", which will cause flat aromas and flavors. It's been said that the ideal temps range between 45° F and 65° F, and though there isn't an exact science, it is said that 55° is the perfect temperature. Luckily it's not life or death to your wine if the temperature fluctuates a bit, as long as you're opening the bottles within a few years from the release.
But Not Too Cool
While you don't want your wine to get too warm, you certainly don't want it to get too cold. You can keep your wine in the fridge for short term, but the average refrigerator drops below 45° to keep your food from perishing. Your fridge also lacks moisture which could dry the cork out, allowing air to seep in and hurt your wine. Also make sure to not store your wine where it will freeze - such as your garage in the winter, or forgotten in the freezer. If the liquid starts to freeze it will expand and could push the cork out!
Consistency is Key
You don't need to be paranoid about the temperature staying at the perfect 55°, as much as you need to worry about the consistency of the temperature. Constant fluctuations can cause the cork to expand or contract which could allow seepage. Though just because there is wine that has seeped out past the cork doesn't mean it's ruined - the only way to know is to try it!Darkness Is Ideal
Ever wondered why wine was stored in dark or colored glass bottles? It's like sunglasses for you wine! UV rays can degrade and age your wine, and household bulbs can fade your labels in the long run. Incandescent bulbs are found to be the safest bet.Keep It On It's Side
Generally wine is stored on it's side because it keeps the cork from drying out. If you're planning on drinking your wine in the near future, it probably won't affect it as much. Though it is much more space efficient to store your bottles horizontally instead of vertically.
No Shaking
There is a lot of debate about the damage that vibrations can cause to your wine. Some say that it speeds up the chemical reactions in the liquid, and other serious collectors think that even subtle vibrations cause from electronics can affect your wine. There is little evidence for this - so carrying your wine to your car, and to your fridge, and back to your couch is not going to hurt it.
Seven Springs Winery
Our winery specializes in Missouri wines, with our many diverse flavors and varieties, we know you'll find a favorite. Our beautiful venue is nestled in the gorgeous hills of the Ozarks, amidst the rustic trees and sophisticated grape vines. When you're looking for a place to come sit down and enjoy your favorite glass of wine (chilled to an ideal temperature!) we have great places to enjoy it. Or if you want to take your favorite wines back home we can help with that too. Come out and visit our Lake of the Ozarks Winery for the wine, stay for the atmosphere, remember the view.
Come for the wine...Stay for the atmosphere...Remember the view!
Seven Springs is the finest Winery at the Lake of the Ozarks with a full service facility perfect for outdoor weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, corporate events and parties. Call us today to make reservations for your special event!
Seven Springs Winery
573.317.0100
846 Winery Hills Estates
Linn Creek, MO 65052
