Wine storage
The golden rules for storing wine, ranked by priority:
The temperature of the room
The room temperature should be between 10 and 16°C. Whether the temperature is low or high within this range is not very important, although the ideal temperature is 12°C. What is important is to avoid temperature fluctuations: not slow seasonal variations, but especially daily variations. It is better to have a warm cellar (without exceeding 17°C) with a stable temperature than a cellar that goes from 12°C at night to 16°C during the day; in such a cellar, the wine will quickly become tired.
The humidity of the room
At least 70%; below 60%, the plugs dry out and let air through.
Lighting in the room
Wines (especially white wines more than red wines) are sensitive to light. Light acts as a catalyst for certain chemical reactions that break down colorants. Very intense light, such as neon light, is the most harmful. Tinted glass bottles ensure better preservation.
No vibrations
On this subject, it should be noted that noise is a source of vibrations. Be aware of frequent subway vibrations in Paris basements.
The absence of odor (fishy, fruity, etc.)
Odors can indeed seep through the cork...
The above conditions apply to the storage area. Bottles must, of course, be stored horizontally to ensure that the cork remains moist enough to function properly. A good solution for anyone who cannot meet all these conditions is to purchase a wine cabinet. Increasingly sophisticated, they are ideal for storing wine in apartments or houses that do not have cellars suitable for proper wine storage.
Source : La planète Vin et Version Vin
