Creating a bespoke cellar is a goal for many wine enthusiasts, offering a sanctuary for prized bottles and a space for serenity or socialising. However, without proper planning and care, your wine cellar could become a source of disappointment rather than delight.
The good news is, Team EWC is committed to ensuring that your wine storage scenario exceeds every expectation. Here are just a few of the ways we can help you avoid common mistakes.
Monitor Temperature and Humidity Control – One of the biggest errors in wine storage is neglecting temperature and humidity levels. Fluctuations in temperature can cause wine to age prematurely or negatively affect the flavour. Aim for a consistent temperature between 45-64°F and humidity levels around 50-70%. Invest in a quality cooling system and monitor humidity with a hygrometer to ensure optimal conditions.
Eradicate Inadequate Insulation – Poor insulation and sealing can lead to temperature fluctuations and moisture issues, compromising your wine collection. EWC will properly insulate walls, doors and windows to maintain stable conditions, as well as seal gaps and cracks to prevent air leaks that can disrupt the cellar environment.
Limit Light Exposure – Light (especially sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) rays) can degrade wine and cause irreversible damage. Keep your wine cellar dimly lit and avoid fluorescent lighting, which emits UV radiation. Our skilled technicians can help you find the ideal way to safely and beautifully illuminate your collection.
Pick the Perfect Location – Where you store your wine can significantly impact its quality and longevity. Avoid housing wine in the kitchen or near appliances that generate heat, as this can accelerate aging and spoilage. One of the most important things our team of expert builders and designers does is make sure that your cellar, wine room or wall is located in the proper place within your home or business to prevent issues with damaging your valued vintages.
Give Your Bottles Breathing Room – While it's tempting to fill every available space with bottles, overcrowding can hinder air circulation and make it difficult to retrieve your wines. Leave enough room between bottles for airflow, and consider investing in wine racks designed to maximise storage efficiency without compromising accessibility.
Prioritise Inventory Organisation – Without proper organisation and inventory management, you may struggle to keep track of your wine collection. Implement a systematic approach to categorising and labeling bottles, making it easier to locate specific wines and track their aging process.
Remember Regular Maintenance – A wine cellar requires ongoing maintenance to ensure optimal conditions and preserve your investment. Schedule regular inspections to check for leaks, monitor temperature and humidity levels, and replace air filters as needed. Additionally, periodically rotate and check your wine inventory to uncover any previously unnoticed issues.
Ready to create a wine cellar that showcases your collection and preserves its quality for years to come? So are we! Just give us a call, text or email whenever you’re ready. Cheers to building the storage solution of your dreams!