Wine storage is an essential aspect of wine culture. Whether you are a seasoned wine collector or just an occasional drinker, it is crucial to understand how to store your wine correctly. Among many factors that influence the quality of wine, the position in which it is stored is one of the most important. In this article, we’ll explore why you should store wine on its side and the science behind it.
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Wine lovers are familiar with the age-old practice of storing wine bottles on their side. While this may seem like a trivial detail, it is, in fact, a crucial aspect of wine preservation. Storing wine on its side has been a long-standing tradition followed by enthusiasts and experts alike, but many may wonder why this is the case. In this brief write-up, we will delve into the reasons for storing wine bottles on their side and why it is essential for maintaining the quality of wine over time.
The Science Behind Wine Storage
Before we dive into the reasons why you should store wine on its side, let’s understand the science behind it. Wine is composed of water, alcohol, and other compounds that give it flavor and aroma. One of these compounds is called tannins, which are responsible for the wine’s structure and texture. Tannins come from the grape skins, seeds, and stems and are extracted during the winemaking process.
When wine is bottled, it is in contact with the cork, which is made of a porous material. The cork allows a small amount of air to enter the bottle, which is necessary for the wine to age correctly. However, if the wine is stored vertically, the cork will dry out and shrink, allowing too much air to enter the bottle. This excess air can cause the wine to oxidize, resulting in a loss of flavor and aroma. So, storing wine on its side ensures that the cork remains moist and in contact with the wine, preventing oxidation.
Wine Storage Positions
There are three primary positions in which wine can be stored: vertically, at an angle, and horizontally. Let’s explore each of these positions and see which one is the best for wine storage.
Storing wine on its side is essential for preventing oxidation and allowing sediment to settle. Horizontal storage is the best position for long-term wine storage, while angled storage is suitable for short-term storage. Temperature, humidity, light, and vibration are also essential factors that affect wine storage. Red wine should be stored on its side, while white wine can be stored upright or on its side, and sparkling wine should always be stored on its side. Wine racks, wine coolers, and wine cellars are the best options for storing wine on its side.
Vertical Storage
Storing wine bottles vertically is the most common position. It is also the easiest and most convenient way to store wine. However, as we discussed earlier, this position can cause the cork to dry out and shrink, allowing too much air to enter the bottle. This excess air can cause the wine to oxidize, resulting in a loss of flavor and aroma. So, it is not the best position for wine storage.
Angled Storage
Angled storage is a compromise between vertical and horizontal storage. It allows the wine to remain in contact with the cork while preventing it from drying out. This position is suitable for short-term storage but is not recommended for long-term storage.
Horizontal Storage
Horizontal storage is the best position for long-term wine storage. It allows the wine to remain in contact with the cork, preventing it from drying out and shrinking. Additionally, storing wine on its side ensures that the sediment settles at the bottom of the bottle, making it easier to pour.
Benefits of Storing Wine on Its Side
Now that we understand the science behind wine storage and the different positions in which wine can be stored, let’s explore the benefits of storing wine on its side.
Storing wine on its side is important for several reasons, including preventing oxidation, allowing sediment to settle, saving space, and keeping the cork moist. Vertical storage is not recommended as it can dry out the cork and cause too much air to enter the bottle. Horizontal storage is the best position for long-term wine storage, as it ensures that the cork remains in contact with the wine and prevents it from drying out. Different types of wine should be stored differently, but red wine should always be stored on its side. Wine racks, wine coolers, and wine cellars are all excellent storage options, but wine cellars are the ultimate way to replicate the conditions of a wine cave and provide a consistent temperature and humidity level.
Prevents Oxidation
As we discussed earlier, storing wine on its side ensures that the cork remains moist and in contact with the wine, preventing oxidation. Oxidation can cause the wine to lose its flavor and aroma, making it undrinkable.
Helps Sediment Settle
Storing wine on its side allows the sediment to settle at the bottom of the bottle, making it easier to pour. If the sediment is disturbed, it can affect the wine’s taste and texture.
Saves Space
Storing wine on its side saves space. You can store more bottles in the same amount of space than if you were to store them vertically.
Temperature
Temperature is one of the most critical factors that affect wine storage. Wine should be stored in a cool, dark place, where the temperature is consistent. The ideal temperature for wine storage is between 55-65°F. If the temperature is too high, the wine can age too quickly, and if it is too low, the wine can develop off-flavors.
Humidity
Humidity is another important factor that affects wine storage. Wine should be stored in an environment with a humidity level between 50-80%. If the humidity is too low, the cork can dry out, allowing too much air to enter the bottle, causing oxidation. If the humidity is too high, mold can grow on the cork, which can affect the wine’s taste and texture.
Light
Light can also affect wine storage. Wine should be stored in a dark place, away from direct sunlight. The UV rays in sunlight can cause chemical reactions in the wine, affecting its taste and aroma. If wine is exposed to light for too long, it can become “light-struck,” resulting in a loss of flavor and aroma.
Vibration
Vibration can also affect wine storage. Wine should be stored in a place that is free from vibration. Vibration can cause the wine to age too quickly, affecting its taste and texture. It is best to store wine in a place that is quiet and free from any vibrations.
What Type of Wines Should Be Stored on Their Side?
While storing wine on its side is essential, it is not necessary for all types of wine. Here are some general guidelines for storing different types of wine:
Storing wine on its side is crucial for preventing oxidation and ensuring that the cork remains moist and in contact with the wine. Horizontal storage is the best position for long-term wine storage, as it allows the sediment to settle and saves space. Temperature, humidity, light, and vibration should also be considered when storing wine. Red wine should always be stored on its side, white wine can be stored upright or on its side depending on the cork closure, and sparkling wine should always be stored on its side. Wine racks, wine coolers, and wine cellars are great options for storing wine on its side.
Red Wine
Red wine should be stored on its side, especially if it is a wine that can age for many years. Storing red wine on its side ensures that the cork remains moist and in contact with the wine, preventing oxidation.
White Wine
White wine can be stored upright or on its side. However, if the white wine has a cork closure, it should be stored on its side to prevent the cork from drying out and shrinking.
Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wine should always be stored on its side. The carbon dioxide in sparkling wine can cause the cork to push out of the bottle if it is stored upright.
How to Store Wine on Its Side
Now that we know why storing wine on its side is essential let’s explore how to store wine on its side correctly.
Wine Racks
A wine rack is an excellent way to store wine on its side. Wine racks come in various sizes and shapes, and they can be made of wood, metal, or plastic. Wine racks can be freestanding or built into a cabinet, and they are an excellent way to store wine in an organized and secure way.
Wine Coolers
A wine cooler is another option for storing wine on its side. Wine coolers are designed to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, making them an excellent choice for long-term wine storage. Wine coolers come in various sizes and price ranges, and they are an excellent way to protect your wine collection.
Wine Cellars
A wine cellar is the ultimate way to store wine on its side. Wine cellars are designed to replicate the conditions of a wine cave, providing a consistent temperature and humidity level. Wine cellars can be custom-built, or they can be purchased as prefabricated units. If you are a serious wine collector, a wine cellar is a worthwhile investment.
FAQs – Why do you store wine on its side?
Why should wine be stored on its side?
Wine should be stored on its side to keep the cork moist. When wine is stored upright, the cork can dry out and shrink, which can allow air into the bottle and spoil the wine. Storing the bottle on its side allows the wine to come into contact with the cork, keeping it moist and preventing premature spoilage.
Can wine go bad if stored upright?
Yes, wine can go bad if stored upright. As mentioned earlier, when the cork dries out, it can allow air to enter the bottle and lead to premature spoilage. Additionally, when wine is stored upright, the sediment in the bottle can settle on the bottom and potentially create off-flavors in the wine over time.
Is it okay to store some wines upright?
Certain wines can be stored upright, such as wines with alternative closures, such as screw caps or synthetic corks. These closures do not dry out or shrink like natural corks, so they do not require wine to be stored on its side. Additionally, some wines, such as fortified wines or sparkling wines, are less affected by cork contamination and can be stored upright.
What is the ideal temperature for storing wine?
The ideal temperature for storing wine is between 55-65°F (13-18°C). Temperatures that are too high can accelerate the aging process of the wine, while temperatures that are too low can slow it down. Consistent temperature is also important, as fluctuations in temperature can cause the wine to expand and contract, potentially causing the cork to fail and allowing air to enter the bottle.
Can wine be stored in the refrigerator?
While it is okay to temporarily store wine in the refrigerator, it is not recommended for long-term storage. The low temperature and lack of humidity in the refrigerator can dry out the cork and potentially spoil the wine. If wine needs to be stored in the refrigerator, it should be placed on its side and removed from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before serving to allow it to come to the appropriate temperature.