Wine, they say, gets more palatable as it ages. It is therefore important to know how it should be properly stored whether for a long or short duration. As a wine lover, you need to know some techniques on how this lavish drink can be enjoyed even after the bottle has been opened. This article will give you an idea on how to store sealed and opened treasured wines.
Storing it on its side
Leaving a sealed wine bottle in this position will prevent the cork from drying out. It has to be remembered that a dry cork will allow air to get into the wine which will eventually ruin its taste. This will also allow you to check the formation of sediments.
Keeping it away from light
There are a lot of practical ways to do this especially if you don’t have a cellar that is specifically built to filter UV rays. Keep it wrapped with a dark cloth and simply stash it in a box. Have in mind that wine, when exposed to sunlight and fluorescent lamps, can have an undesirable smell.
Maintaining humidity at 70%
The purpose of this is to lessen evaporation and prevent the cork from drying out. However, humidity should not exceed the prescribed limits because it will be a favourable breeding site for moulds. A hygrometer may be necessary for you to keep track of this.
Temperature should be unchanged
Be informed that temperature should not exceed 54°F or 12.2°C. A lower temperature slows down its aging process and causes air to suck back in whilst a rise in temperature forces wine through its cork.
Keeping it off
As much as possible, avoid moving the bottle and don’t store it with other items with strong odour. Wine breaths through its cork and any bad smell will permeate through it.
Storing wine for a prescribed period
Not all wines can be kept for a very long time. Chardonnays can taste better even after 20 years whereas red wines can be stored from 2 to 10 years depending on the balance of its wine making components.
Re-corking the bottle properly
After filling up your glass, see to it that you re-cork immediately to prevent oxygen from getting through the bottle. Your most precious red wine will turn into vinegar once oxygen gets through its cork-less bottle. Its clean side may seem easier to fit but refrain from doing this as this is already exposed to impurities and may taint the taste of your precious drink.
Refrigerate it
A refrigerator does not prevent wine from spoiling but it proves to be useful in maintaining the quality of wine as this slows down chemical processes that may take place once you de-cork your bottle. Just be warned that a fridge can only do this for a couple of days. Avoid drastic temperature changes.
Let the bottle stand
Have it stored in an upright position to minimise exposure to oxygen. Unopened and sealed bottles are placed in a slanting position whilst opened ones are arranged upright. Use a funnel to pour remaining wine in a screw capped bottle. This has less air compared to a regular one.
Don’t open it
If you prefer to use their original containers, imitate what bars do. Have a device that looks like a rabbit opener which pierces the cork with a needle and tops it with argon gas. This allows you to pour your drink and after which, you can then remove its ‘needle’ and the cork will seal automatically. This is to preserve the aroma and taste of your favourite wine.
If you want to make sure your wine keeps its taste, it will be wise to invest in wine storage. Browse through our pages to learn about your options.
