At Friarwood Wines and Spirits, we understand that proper storage is essential for wines intended for ageing and collecting. Whether you're starting your collection or looking to preserve cherished vintages, these guidelines will help ensure your wines develop optimally over time.
The Ideal Storage Environment
The perfect wine storage environment maintains consistent conditions that allow wines to mature gracefully:
Temperature A steady temperature between 12-14°C is optimal. Fluctuations are more harmful than slightly higher temperatures, so consistency is key. Avoid exceeding 18°C for extended periods, as this accelerates ageing and may spoil the wine.
Humidity Maintain 65-75% humidity to keep corks moist without promoting mould. Excessively dry conditions cause corks to shrink, allowing oxygen to enter the bottle and spoil the wine.
Light Store wines in darkness whenever possible. UV rays from sunlight and fluorescent lighting can damage wine by causing unwanted chemical reactions.
Vibration Minimise vibration as it disturbs sediment and may disrupt the ageing process. Keep wines away from household appliances and high-traffic areas.
Storage Options
Wine Refrigerators These purpose-built units maintain ideal temperature and humidity levels. They range from small countertop models to walk-in cellars, making them suitable for collections of any size.
Passive Cellars Underground spaces naturally maintain consistent temperatures and humidity levels. If you're fortunate enough to have a cellar, ensure it remains dry and well-ventilated.
Professional Storage For valuable collections or those lacking proper home storage, consider professional facilities. At Friarwood, we offer storage solutions for our clients' most treasured vintages.
Bottle Positioning
Horizontal Storage Store most wines horizontally to keep the cork moist. This prevents drying and shrinking, which would allow oxygen to enter the bottle.
Exceptions Sparkling wines can be stored upright as the internal pressure keeps the cork moist, while screw-capped bottles don't require horizontal storage.
Organising Your Collection
Inventory System Maintain a detailed inventory with purchase dates, drinking windows, and storage locations. Digital apps or simple spreadsheets can help track your collection.
Accessibility Arrange bottles so those approaching their drinking window are easily accessible, preventing unnecessary disturbance to wines that need longer ageing.
Special Considerations for Older Wines
Wines that have already aged for several decades require extra care:
Minimal Movement Handle aged bottles with extreme care. Allow them to rest for several days after transport before opening.
Decanting Preparation Position older bottles upright 24-48 hours before serving to allow sediment to settle at the bottom.
Temperature Acclimation Bring aged wines gradually to serving temperature. Sudden temperature changes can shock the wine and diminish its quality.
Common Storage Mistakes
Kitchen Storage Avoid storing fine wines in kitchens, where temperature fluctuations and vibrations from appliances can damage them.
Temperature Extremes Never store wine in attics, garages, or other spaces with significant temperature variations.
Overhandling Resist the temptation to frequently rearrange or handle your collection, particularly older vintages.
When to Enjoy
Even with perfect storage, all wines have their peak drinking window. Regular research on your specific vintages will help you enjoy them at their best. Our sommeliers at Friarwood are always available to offer guidance on when to open your treasured bottles.
Remember, proper storage is an investment in your wine collection's future. For personalised advice on storing specific wines or to explore our storage solutions, visit us at Friarwood Wines in London.
