Common mistakes in storing wine at home

Ignore temperature

One of the most critical factors in wine preservation is temperature. Too high or too low a temperature can alter the aromas and taste of the wine. Ideally, wine should be stored in a stable environment, between 10 and 15°C for red wines, and slightly cooler for white wines, between 7 and 12°C.

Mistakes to avoid when storing your wines:

• Store wine at room temperature: Temperature variations can cause changes in the wine, making its taste less pleasant.
• Place wine near a heat source: Keep your bottles away from radiators, stoves or direct sunlight, which can heat up the wine. 

Neglecting humidity

Humidity plays an essential role in wine conservation, especially for bottles with cork stoppers. Too dry an environment can dry out the cork, leading to wine oxidation.

Mistakes to avoid when storing your wines:

• Storing wine too dry: The ideal humidity level is between 60 and 80%. Too little humidity can lead to cork degradation, while too much can cause mold.
• Forgetting to check humidity: Use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity level in your cellar or storage space.

Incorrect bottle positioning

The way you position your wine bottles is also crucial. Most experts recommend storing bottles lying down to keep the cork moist and prevent oxidation.

Mistakes to avoid when storing your wines:

• Keeping bottles upright: This can dry out the cork and create an opening for oxygen, which can spoil the wine.
• Not paying attention to labeling: Bottles should be oriented with the label visible, not only for aesthetic reasons but also to facilitate identification.

No light control

Light, especially UV light, can degrade wine compounds and affect its taste. That's why it's essential to store wine in a dark place or in tinted bottles. 

Mistakes to avoid when storing your wines:

• Store wine in direct light: Avoid placing your bottles in sunny places, such as near windows, or under fluorescent lights.
• Use transparent bottles: Prefer tinted glass bottles, which protect wine from harmful UV rays. 

Overload your storage space

It may be tempting to fill your storage space with all your bottles, but overloading can impair air circulation and temperature.

Mistakes to avoid when storing your wines:

• Stacking bottles: Make sure there's enough space between bottles to allow adequate air circulation.
• Using unsuitable shelving: Invest in shelving specifically designed for wine, offering good support and adequate ventilation. 

Ignore shelf life

Not all wines are intended to be kept for long periods. Some wines should be drunk young, while others may improve with age.

Mistakes to avoid when storing your wines:

• Keep wines to drink quickly: Light white wines or rosés should be drunk within 1 to 3 years of bottling.
• Forget that some wines can age: Find out about the aging potential of your wines to avoid losing out on tasting opportunities.