How To Store Red Wine
All wine is susceptible to a few external variables that, if not controlled, can cause it to spoil. These include:
Oxygen
Temperature
Humidity
Light Exposure
When it comes to wine storage it is critical that you maintain recommended levels of the aforementioned. It is also important that you understand the slight differences of each respective to each wine category. While this guide details the best way to store red wine, we invite you to read our other guides as well:
When it comes to storing red wine it is important to relegate exposure to things that can cause it to go bad. These include:
Oxygen
Temperature
Humidity
Light
We’ve created this helpful guide to storing red wine so that you can keep your delicious reds lasting longer and tasting better.
Oxygen
When wine is exposed to oxygen it begins a chemical process that causes it to go bad. Too much oxygen exposure and wine is said to become oxidized. Oxidized wine tastes bad and has lost its aroma.
Temperature
Controlling heat exposure is key to prolonging the shelf life of your red wine. The most ideal range is between 45° F and 65° F, with 55° F being the best temperature to store red wine. Consistency is also important as significant temperature fluctuation can cause red wine to go bad.
Can I Store Red Wine In The Refrigerator? Yes. Just make sure to re-cork the bottle and it should last 3-5 days.
Humidity
50-80% humidity is the best place to keep red wine. Too little humidity and you risk the cork drying out which will catalyze the oxidation of your wine.
Light
Too much light exposure can rapidly deteriorate wine. Therefore it is important to keep your red wine in a dark place
FAQ’s
What Do I Do After Opening Red Wine? Generally speaking, the best thing to do is re-cork the bottle, keep it out of direct sunlight, and ensure it is kept in a temperature controlled environment.
Should I Store Red Wine On Its Side? No, doing so increases the surface area exposed to oxygen. Therefore it is important to store red wine upright.
When it comes to storing wine there are a lot of particulars that must be adhered to if you want to protect it from the things that will ruin it, let alone get the most out of it. If you want to store your wine without the hassle give us a call. We are the San Francisco Bay Area’s best wine storage company offering a unique facility in the heart of Napa Valley.
If you are looking for the best storage solution, we encourage you to visit our wine storage facility in Napa Valley. The historic 110-year-old facility is located on picturesque grounds and includes wine storage options for wine libraries up to 250 cases large. Schedule a tour today!