Best Practices for Storing Red Wine: Myth or Reality?

When it comes to storing red wine, many enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike wonder if they need to use a wine cooler, and if so, at what temperature. This article aims to demystify the concept of wine cooling, specifically for red wines, and provide practical advice on how to ensure your beloved vintages are stored at optimal conditions.

Understanding the Temperature Requirements for Red Wines

Correct wine storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and taste of your prized bottles. Different types of red wine require different storage temperatures to prevent spoilage and maintain their aromas and flavors:

Full-Bodied Reds (Bordeaux, Napa Cabs, Shiraz, Zinfandel): 17-19deg;C Lighter-Bodied Reds (Burgundies, Pinot Noir, Chianti): 14-16deg;C Light Young and Fruity Reds (Beaujolais, Merlot): 12-14deg;C

It's important to note that some wine coolers, especially modern commercial models and artisanal wines, can manage temperature fluctuations, but this is not a feature available on all cheaper models.

Wine Cooler Benefits and Drawbacks

While wine coolers can prevent temperature fluctuations that can degrade wine, there are some considerations:

Modern Commercial Wines

For modern commercial wines, storing them in a wine cooler is generally not necessary. These wines are often produced and stored under controlled conditions, and they may be pre-chilled to allow for tartaric deposits to settle before consumption.

Artisanal Wines

If you are a collector of artisanal wines, storing them in a wine cooler might be beneficial to prevent tartaric deposits from clouding the wine. Tartar crystals can form at lower temperatures and appear as a dark deposit on the glass. While these do not affect the taste, they can be aesthetically displeasing. Modern wines often go through temperature-controlled environments to prevent these deposits, but store-bought and home storage might not offer the same protection.

Should You Store Wine in a Fridge?

Typically, it's best not to store wine in a regular refrigerator, as these are designed for more fluctuating temperatures and higher humidity. However, you can use a refrigerator to chill your wine:

Chilling Red Wine

Yes, you can chill red wine in a refrigerator, but it's typically better to do so at a warmer setting rather than using the chill setting. It's also possible to get a wine refrigerator with two separate compartments at different temperature settings to accommodate both red and white wines.

Post-Opening Storage

A common practice among wine enthusiasts is to store unopened bottles in a wine fridge at 54deg;F, which is equivalent to about 12deg;C. For opened bottles, storing them in the refrigerator is quite common:

Proper Storage Techniques

Pump Out Air: Removing the air from the bottle can help prevent oxidation, which can degrade the wine's flavor and aroma. Temperature Management: When opening a bottle, it's not always necessary to wait for the temperature to return to the optimal drinking temperature. Drawing the wine from the refrigerator when ready to drink is perfectly fine.

In conclusion, while some modern and artisanal wines can be stored in wine coolers for optimal aging, it's not strictly necessary for all types of red wine. Proper cooling before serving and managing post-opening storage are key practices to keep your wine in top condition.