Features of storing red wine: temperature, container, timing and other factors

Storage is one of the important stages in the life cycle of wine.

During the ripening period, the drink acquires new taste qualities.

Each type of wine, including red, has its own characteristics in the organization of storage.

Conditions

When choosing a place to store red wine, and even more so an extensive wine collection, you should take into account the conditions in which the product will be located. This is important not only for expensive, collectible items, but also for ordinary ones, since significant fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause any product to deteriorate.

How many degrees should the room be?

Optimal storage temperature ranges from +10°С to +15°С.

If it is significantly higher, oxidative processes will begin to take place intensively, a precipitate may form, etc.

If the temperature is too low, ripening may stop and the taste and aroma will deteriorate. In both cases, loss of beneficial properties and even damage to the drink is possible.

At what humidity?

Recommended for red wine Ambient air humidity averages 70%. This limitation is due to the fact that cork stoppers are used to seal the bottles.

If stored in a damp place, mold may develop on the cork. In a too dry place, on the contrary, the cork will begin to dry out and even crack, losing its tightness and letting air into the contents, which is extremely undesirable.

Lighting

Another important point when planning wine storage is the need to provide protection from not only direct sunlight, but also bright artificial light. Under its influence, chemical processes begin to occur in the wine, which accelerate the oxidation and aging of the drink.

How long does it last?

The shelf life of red wine depends on the product category and price segment. The most commonly used division into groups is:

• table food consumed by young people;
• vintage - can be aged or used young;
• aged vintage - usually stored for several years;
• elite - expensive, stored for a long time and used on special occasions.

In an open bottle

Once the cork is removed from a bottle of red wine, air is allowed to enter the drink. After this, the shelf life of the product is sharply reduced.

An unfinished bottle can no longer be stored for a long time, it is recommended to use it within the next 3-5 days.

Wine is a living drink, and access to oxygen activates the development of bacteria. During long-term storage, the contents of an uncorked bottle may lose their properties and become unsafe for health.

An open bottle of wine should be kept in the refrigerator with the cap closed.

In closed

The sealed bottle can be stored for the entire period specified by the manufacturer, and indicated on the label.Table wines can be kept in reserve for only a few years, while aged and elite wines can be stored for years, and even decades.

But even during short-term storage, the wine must be provided with suitable conditions.

Such cabinets are functional, have an attractive design, and fully cope with the task.

Shelf life depends on the type of product. Semi-sweet reds, as a rule, last up to 3 years, dry and semi-dry - up to 5 years. Elite - much longer.

Where and in what container should I store it?

The classic version of containers for wine is glass bottles made of darkened glass. This is the best choice. They are convenient, compact and do not react with the contents. When sealed with a cork, bottles can sit around even at home for years.

Wineries can also use oak barrels. Such containers are used for large volumes of wine, and they are located in wine cellars.

Homemade wines are sometimes bottled in plastic. It is not advisable to use this type of container, since even food-grade plastic can react with the contents of the bottle.

If the product is stored in plastic for a long time or in inappropriate conditions, the wine may deteriorate and pose a health hazard. If plastic containers are used, the wine should not remain in it for a long time.

Is it possible in the refrigerator?

Red wine according to the rules it should be at a temperature of +10-15°C.

In a regular refrigerator, this indicator is maintained at about +7°C, which is lower than recommended for the drink.

If it is possible to find another place for wine, then it is better not to use the refrigerator. You can keep opened bottles in it, but be sure to plug them with corks first.

Conclusion

The shelf life of red wine depends on a number of factors, including the quality of the product and the conditions in which it is kept. It is recommended to follow professional advice and do not violate the rules for having wine at home.