When it comes to storing wine, there are some important factors to think about. The way you transport and store your wine can affect its flavor, especially as they age.
Like many of the vineyards in St Helena, Wheeler Farms vineyards are sustainably farmed. We use organic and biodynamic practices to make the best Cabernet Sauvignon—and other California classics—that the land will allow.
We encourage our community to use as much care in storing our wine as we do when making it. When we hand our bottles off to you, it’s up to you to keep them safe and sound so that they reach their full potential on the day you choose to open them.
Here are some storage tips that you can use at home, whether you have a cellar or a little space on your kitchen counter.
Temperature and light
Wine is sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Be sure to store your wine where you can control the temperature year-round. Standard practice is to keep the space between 45º and 65º Fahrenheit. A digitally-operated wine cooler will allow you to adjust the temperatures of your wines, depending on whether you’re storing whites like Sauvignon Blanc, light reds like Pinot Noir, or your best Cabernet Sauvignon.
Keep your wine out of direct sunlight, which can heat the wine up and affect its flavors. Store your wine in dimly lit or dark areas, or use UV-protected coverings on nearby windows and doors.
Movement and stability
Wine loves to be still. Store it in a stable position, preferably on its side, so that the cork remains moist and doesn’t dry out. Try to avoid moving your bottles too much, as this can agitate older wines. If you do move your bottles, make an effort to keep them level with the position you’re storing them in for safe transport.
Vibrations can also disturb the sediment in your wine and degrade its quality. To avoid this, make sure your wine is stored safely away from appliances that emit vibrations like washing machines.
Humidity
Proper humidity levels keep corks moist and prevent them from drying out or developing mold. You’ll want to aim for a humidity range of 50%-70%. If you live in a dry climate, use a humidifier or place a bowl of water nearby to increase the moisture. If you live in a humid area, use a dehumidifier or take measures to ventilate the area often.
From our vineyards in St Helena to your cellar
You don’t need to remodel your home in order to store your wines properly (but we’re honored if you do!). All you need to do is put a little thought into the space that you’re working with. Use these tips to assess your space and choose a place where your beloved wine collection can wait patiently until the perfect time to open it.
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