Tips for optimal wine storage in the summer

The taste of a wine can differ significantly depending on how well it has been stored. Especially in summer, it is important to protect wines from adverse conditions.

When it comes to enjoying good wine, guests attach great importance to it being served in the best condition and at the optimal drinking temperature. Therefore, it is important to master the proper storage and preparation of wine in order to provide guests with an outstanding wine experience. As our knowledge of wine increases and we focus on enjoyment and wine culture, proper wine storage becomes more and more important.

Even if you don’t have your own wine cellar, you should consider purchasing a wine climate control cabinet. A wine climate control cabinet makes it possible to store wines professionally and prepare them for the ideal serving temperature.

3 Tips to keep wines at the optimal temperature

Stephan Kohmann, CEO of Eurocave Germany, shares three simple tips for keeping wines at the optimal temperature:

1. Store in a place with a constant temperature: wines should be stored neither too cool nor too warm. For long-term storage, a temperature of 12°C is ideal.
2. Keep an eye on humidity: To prevent drying of the cork and oxidation of the wine, the humidity should be between 70% and 75%.
3. Dark storage with UV protection: store wines in dark rooms or use rooms with UV protection to prevent the degradation of tannins.

In most cases, optimal conditions for wine storage are not automatic, so a wine climate control cabinet can ensure a successful wine experience for guests. A wine climate control cabinet offers the best protection from summer heat and temperature fluctuations.

For aging fine wines, a 1-zone wine climate control cabinet is recommended. If you want to store and serve wines ideally, wine climate cabinets with two or three zones are also available. With three zones, you can easily serve a Bordeaux at 17°C, a red Burgundy at 16°C, or an Alsatian Pinot Gris at 11°C. The right serving temperature is crucial for the wine’s aromas, flavor and texture.

Recommendations for summer temperatures:

• Red wines: red wines are usually served a little cooler to emphasize their fresh characteristics. The ideal temperature is between 13°C and 18°C to best enhance the aromas.
• White wines: White wines should be served chilled to preserve their freshness and aromatics. In summer, a temperature between 7°C and 13°C is ideal to enjoy the wine in a refreshing way.
• Rosé wines: Due to their light and refreshing nature, rosé wines are perfect for summer. The recommended temperature range is also between 7°C and 13°C to enjoy the full flavor and aroma experience.

To determine if a wine has become too warm, it is important to know that the serving temperature has a great impact on the aromas and the sensation on the palate. Wine that is too cold closes off and cannot develop, while wine that is too warm exudes alcohol and suppresses flavors. Therefore, care should be taken not to store wines too warm and proper storage plays an important role.