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Wine Cellars

In order to keep wine at its finest and to avoid premature aging, wine cellars require certain environmental conditions. The four essential components for storing wine properly are temperature, humidity, light and vibration with temperature being the most vital element in the environment.

Wine cellars should have consistent, cooled environments for optimum long-term wine storage conditions. Higher temperatures tend to increase the aging process and may result in alcohol separation while cooler temperatures can lead to various deposits in wine. Storing wine at 55? is standard, with an acceptable five degree variation.

Wine cellars should maintain 60% to 80% humidity in order to keep wine from aging improperly. Wine should also be stored on its side; this allows the wine to come in contact with the cork. When the cork is kept wet, it creates a natural environment of humidity. Also avoid a high degree of light exposure, especially fluorescent lighting. As wine settles, sediments begin to fall. Wine collections should not be moved frequently or be in any high traffic areas. Avoiding vibrations will keep the sediment balance of the wine at a proper level.