As an experienced sommelier, I have often accompanied high-quality wines and wine cellars over many years. I see how they develop and mature - or, unfortunately, how they are damaged by incorrect storage.
Especially now in summer, many people ask themselves: how well are my wines really protected when the temperatures rise?
Here I would like to share my experience of what is important - and when it makes sense to think about professional storage.
Summer temperatures - a real challenge for the wine
Wine loves constant conditions. Ideal conditions mean constant temperature, a humidity of 70% and UV protection.
As soon as temperatures rise in summer or fluctuate greatly between day and night, wine begins to develop more quickly. Freshness, aroma and longevity can suffer as a result.
What many people underestimate: It's not just the heat itself that is a problem - constant minor temperature fluctuations also stress the wine (and wine corks) enormously.
Typical storage locations at home - my assessment
➔ Earth cellar/wine cellar
A proper wine cellar such as an earth cellar or stone wine cellar offers good conditions in many cases. However, at the height of summer, even deep soil can heat up. Small fluctuations of a few degrees may seem insignificant, but in the long term they have a noticeable effect on maturity.
For wines that will be consumed within weeks or a few months, a private wine cellar is perfectly fine and also has its charm. For long-term storage in such cellars, especially in the premium wine segment, I would personally advise against it.
➔ Wine refrigerator
Wine cabinets are a practical tool - if they are also used as a wine refrigerator and not for long-term storage.
A good solution for short-term interim storage - a makeshift solution for long-term ageing or particularly valuable bottles. In addition to many other negative factors, wine refrigerators are usually located in bright rooms or receive direct sunlight on the glass door, so the internal climate can become unstable.
The ideal time for change
Spring or fall, when the outside temperatures are still moderate, is an excellent opportunity to review your own wine cellar.
Now - before the sometimes extreme summer heat worsens the storage conditions in the wine cellar and the potential of your wines dwindles in the long term.
How I recognize professional storage
- Constant temperatures at all times regardless of the season or outside temperature
- Stable humidity of 70%
- Protection from light - UV radiation
- No vibrations - no shocks, no movements
- Overview and documentation - so you know what you have and when it's perfect
Only in this way can a wine develop its full potential.
My conclusion
Wine deserves respect - and respect is shown in its storage.
For short-term enjoyment at home, a well-stocked cellar is absolutely sufficient.
But if you value maturity, quality and long-term enjoyment, you should offer your wine conditions that are stable in the long term.
Sometimes it's the bottles we put away today that give us the greatest moments of pleasure tomorrow.
