Being prepared to receive visitors at home, or even having the habit of buying wines regularly is very good. However, knowing how to properly store and preserve wines is essential to ensure that each bottle maintains its unique characteristics and provides an exceptional experience when tasting. In addition to ensuring the preservation of the wine's characteristics, correct storage allows the development of refined flavors and enveloping aromas, as well as enhances its ageing.
1) The ideal temperature, for example, is one of the key points for the correct storage of wines. Both red and white wines must be stored at a constant and cool temperature, between 10ºC and 15ºC. Extreme temperature variations can affect wine quality. The cooler the wine's location, the slower it will develop, preventing it from being damaged. The right thing is to avoid storing them in places subject to excessive heat, such as near the stove or in places directly exposed to sunlight.
2) Controlling humidity is another essential point, namely to avoid damage to corks, with a relative humidity range between 60% and 80% being recommended. Otherwise, storing wines in places with lower values can cause the corks to dry out, a factor that contributes to the entry of air into the bottle and consequently to the deterioration of the wine.
3) Storing wines in places with a total absence of vibrations is ideal. Places subject to constant vibrations, such as next to washing machines, dryers or columns, for example, can disturb the natural sedimentation of wine components and affect its quality over time. If you want to open a wine that has been transported recently, it is best to let it stand overnight so that the sediment can collect at the bottom of the bottle.
4) The position of the bottles is another important factor. Wines must always be stored lying down, and never standing up, so that the cork is always in contact with the wine. This care helps to keep the cork moist, preventing it from drying out and allowing a proper seal.
5) Avoid strong odors. Chemicals, perfumes or even foods like garlic and onions can affect the quality and flavor of the wine. In this way, keeping wines away from components that can transmit unwanted odors improves the tasting experience.
6) In addition to storage, opening the wines is also considered a factor that can influence the whole experience. When opening wines, a quality corkscrew should be used to avoid damage to the cork. In the same way that you should avoid sudden movements so that the cork does not disintegrate, however, if this happens, the ideal is to use a filter to remove the pieces of cork in the wine.
The art of storage is, for many, of little relevance. However, being able to keep the wines in an ideal place that meets all the conditions described will make the experience when tasting them unique and indescribable. Storing correctly makes all the difference, and taking a minute to enjoy the wine, paying attention to its aromas, flavors and sensations is even better.
By following these tips, you'll be on the right path to enjoying wines in the best way, since each bottle is unique and has its own personality, so being attentive to the specific needs of each one is paramount. Allow yourself to learn, expand your knowledge and improve your palate, sharing the emotion of tasting a wine that was carefully aged in your own home cellar.