10 Fridge Wine Tricks Experts Recommend
The Complete Guide to Storing Wine in Your Fridge
For numerous wine enthusiasts, the thought of popping a bottle for a casual weeknight supper or a special occasion typically results in concerns about the perfect conditions for keeping wine. While a traditional wine rack may offer optimal conditions, a refrigerator can function as a suitable alternative for short-term storage or cooling down bottles to their ideal serving temperature. This guide will check out the ins and outs of fridge wine storage, including what types of wine gain from refrigeration, suggestions for appropriate storage, and responses to typical FAQs.
Understanding Wine Storage Temperatures
Wine is delicate to temperature variations. Keeping wine at the incorrect temperature can change its flavor profile and scent. Here's a quick referral table outlining the perfect serving temperatures for various types of wine:
Type of Wine
Suitable Serving Temperature ( ° F
)Ideal Serving Temperature ( ° C
)Sparkling Wine
40-50 °
F 4-10 ° C
Gewurztraminer
45-55 °
F 7-13 °
C Rosé Wine
50-55 °
F 10-13 ° C
Light-bodied Red
55-60 °
F 13-16 ° C
Full-bodied Red
60-65 °
F 16-18 ° C
Dessert Wine
45-55 °
F 7-13 ° C
The Case for Using Your Fridge
While the primary function of a refrigerator is to keep food fresh, it also acts as an excellent environment for short-term wine storage. Below are a few of the advantages of using your fridge for wine:
- Consistent Temperature: Unlike a common room temperature that can change, a refrigerator keeps a consistent environment, lessening the threat of wasting.
- Humidity Control: Refrigerators typically keep a humidity level that can be favorable for wine storage if kept in between 40-70%.
- Ease of access: Having a choice of red wines easily available can encourage more spontaneous satisfaction of fantastic wines.
Tips for Proper Wine Storage in Your Fridge
Keeping wine in the refrigerator might appear simple, however some particular considerations will assist maintain it even better. Below are a number of tips to keep in mind:
- Lay Bottles on Their Side: This keeps the cork moist, preventing it from drying out and enabling air to seep in.
- Prevent Storing Wine on the Door: The door's regular opening triggers temperature variations. Instead, utilize the middle shelves, as they provide a more constant temperature.
- Keep It Away from Strong Odors: Wine can easily take in odors from other food items. Keep your fridge arranged and location wine bottles far from effective smelling foods.
- Be Mindful of Vibrations: While standard refrigerators may not produce substantial vibrations, it's still recommended to decrease motion and turbulence.
- Use Wine-Specific Refrigerators: While basic fridges can serve well, consider purchasing wine coolers if serious about preserving white wines in the long term.
What Types of Wine Should be Stored in the Fridge?
When considering which white wines are suitable for refrigerator storage, it's important to compare long-lasting and short-term storage. Below is a breakdown:
Short-Term Storage (Up to a Few Weeks)
- Sparkling Wines: Chilling before serving enhances their freshness.
- White Wines: Ideal for immediate intake; cool them a few hours before serving.
- Rosé Wines: These also gain from cooling.
- Opened Red Wines: Once opened, reds can be saved in the fridge up until consumed to extend their freshness.
Long-Term Storage (More Than a Few Weeks)
- Full-Bodied Red Wines: Typically, heavy reds do not need refrigeration for preservation however can benefit from it if for brief periods.
- Dessert Wines: Best when cooled before serving, can be kept in the fridge once opened.
Common Questions About Storing Wine in the Fridge
1. Can I keep red wine in the fridge?
- Yes, but ideally for simply short-term storage or if opened. For long-lasting storage, a wine rack or wine fridge is more suitable.
2. The length of time can I leave wine in the fridge?
- Unopened bottles can be stored for a few days to a couple of weeks. Opened bottles can last for about 3 to 5 days, depending on the wine type.
3. Should I store wine upright or on its side?
- Constantly store wine bottles on their side to keep the cork moist unless it is a screw cap or the bottle is upright.
4. Can gleaming wine be stored in the fridge?
- Yes! Sparkling wine has a more defined benefit for keeping in the fridge, keeping it at optimum serving temperature levels.
5. What about gewurztraminers? Should they be cooled?
- Gewurztraminer are best served cooled. Shop them in your fridge and take them out about 10-15 minutes before serving to let them breathe a little.
Cooling wine is not almost storage; it's about optimizing the experience of enjoying your preferred bottles. With read more and best practices, a fridge can appropriately support both short- and mid-term storage for numerous types of wines. As with all things wine-related, the goal should always be to enhance flavor, aroma, and overall satisfaction. So, do not hesitate to open that fridge door and delight in a glass tonight!
Keep these guidelines in mind as you make your wine options, and you'll be well on your method to ending up being a fridge wine lover! Cheers!
