Should Wine Racks Be Tilted?

There is a lot of misinformation online about wine and its proper storage needs, so you have likely seen a lot of it during your time as a wine collector.

Wine isn't as difficult to store as it may seem, and you only need to follow a few simple steps to ensure you end up with a perfectly aged bottle of wine.

In today's blog, we will answer the common question of whether or not wine racks should be tilted, while also discussing why efficient wine storage is essential and the wine storage systems that are available to wine collectors.

 

So, Should They be Tilted?

Yes, the wine racks should be slightly tilted. This is so that the wine can stay in contact with the cork while it's ageing. If the wine and the cork lose contact, the cork will dry out and shrink in size.

This can lead to oxygen seeping into your wine bottles and compromising the taste. Not only that but if the cork shrinks too much, it can cause your wine to leak out of the bottle.

Wine bottles should always be stored either horizontally or at a 45º degree angle with the cork somewhat facing down.

 

Why Proper Wine Storage is Essential

If you are serious about ageing your wine and are passionate about experiencing perfectly balanced aromas, then you must pay attention to your wine storage. There are just a few simple rules that you must follow if you are hoping for perfect results - let’s explore them below.

 

Perfect Temperature

You must manage the temperature your wine is being stored. The perfect temperature to store any wine at is 13°C, but for long periods, it is safe to store wine at 7°C-18°C.

• Red wine should be stored at a temperature between 12°C and 18°C
• White wine should be stored at a temperature between 7°C and 10°C
• Rose wine should be stored at a temperature between 10°C and 12°C
• Sparkling wine should be kept at 10°C to 13°C to maintain carbonation

Perfect Humidity

The ideal humidity level is between 55% and 80%. You must regularly check the humidity of the location your wine is being stored in as too much humidity can lead to mould, mildew, and dried-up corks.

 

Location Matters

The location in which you are placing your wine storage solution matters more than you may think. Your wine must be kept away from radiators to avoid temperature fluctuations.

You should keep your wine away from direct sunlight if stored on a wine rack, and also away from any disturbances. If your wine cabinet or fridge is too close to a washing machine or dryer, the heavy movements and vibrations can cause your wine to become unsettled, which could affect the ageing process.

 

Ways You Can Store Your Wine

There are many different ways that you can store your wine depending on the types of wine that you collect, the size of your collection, and the size of the space that you have for wine storage. Let's take a further look at your options.

 

Wine Cooler

A wine cooler is perfect for those who have many different wine types that they would like to age. Temperatures in the UK are not always ideal for wine storage, so you should be careful about regularly exposing your wine to conditions that can impact the quality.

If your wine is stored in a cooler, you can be certain that your bottles are always being kept at the perfect temperature that they are required to be.

 

Wine Rack

A wine rack is the perfect way to have your bottles on display in your home. A wine rack will add a touch of luxury to your room and elevate your interior in a classy and chic way.

Not only do wine racks add to the aesthetic of your home, but they also offer an excellent way to store your wine and ensure that your wine is ageing correctly.

 

Wine Cellar

If you have a much larger collection then you may have a wine cellar. Storing your wine in a cellar is great, as you will be able to manage the temperature and humidity levels to ensure that your wine is maintained in the perfect environment.

 

Wine Cabinet

A wine cabinet is also a great way to store your favourite bottles and have them on display in your home. Wine cabinets come in multiple different styles and sizes, and you can even get ones that have built-in cooling systems.

 

Where is the Best Place to Put My Wine Storage Solution?

It's up to you where you decide to put your wine cooler or rack. However, if you’re unsure where’s best to locate your wine storage solution, we have a few ideas.

 

Kitchen

A kitchen is the perfect location if you like to cook with wine, as you’ll have access to a fresh bottle on hand every time you need one.

 

Dining Room

If you often host dinner parties or have friends and family around, your wine storage system may be best placed in your dining room. This way, you can have your favourite bottles on display at all times to showcase to your guests.

 

Home Bar

A perfect location for your wine storage system is a home bar. If you have a home bar, consider placing your wine rack or cooler within it. Undoubtedly, this will turn heads whenever you bring guests into your home bar.

 

Wine Cellar

Keeping your bottles hidden away to age and bringing them out when they are ready to be enjoyed is a favourable choice amongst wine connoisseurs. Your wine will be able to age in the perfect environment without being on display in your home.

 

Wine Storage Solutions at Elite Wine Refrigeration

Here at Elite Wine Refrigeration, we have an excellent selection of wine storage solutions that will blend seamlessly within your home. Whether you are after a wine cooler, wine cabinet, or wine rack, we are sure we have exactly what you are looking for.

If you have any questions regarding our products, then please feel free to reach out and a member of our team will be more than happy to help you.