If you are a wine enthusiast, you will know how important it is to store bottles properly so that you can enjoy all their flavor and aroma even during the summer months, when temperatures can reach very high levels. In this article, we will provide you with some valuable tips on how to store wine in the summer to ensure that your bottles remain safe and their contents unaltered.
The cellar is definitely the best place to store wine, especially during the summer. The ideal temperature for wine storage is between 12°C and 16°C, avoiding temperature changes and excessive heat. Make sure your wine cellar is well insulated and not subjected to direct sunlight. Also, check that the humidity is adequate, keeping it at around 70-80%. These conditions will help preserve the flavor and aroma characteristics of the wine in the best way possible.
If you do not have a cellar or adequate cool space in your home, you can store wine in the refrigerator for a short time. However, it is important to keep in mind that the refrigerator is not the ideal environment for wine in the long term, as the temperature is generally too low and can negatively affect its organoleptic qualities. So, if you choose this option, be sure to move the wine to a cellar or cool place as soon as possible.
Sun and direct heat are wine’s enemies. Make sure bottles are stored away from direct sunlight, which can accelerate the aging of wine and alter its taste. Find a cool, dark place in your home, such as a closet or indoor pantry, where you can store your bottles away from light and heat from outside.
Bottles sealed with cork offer better protection from heat than bottles sealed with a screw cap or plastic cork. Cork is a natural material that allows the wine to breathe slightly and helps control micro-oxygenation. Make sure the corks are tightly sealed to prevent air infiltration that could compromise the quality of the wine.
During summer days, you may want to enjoy a cool glass of wine, perhaps choosing from the most famous Ligurian wines. However, it is important not to chill it too much. If wine is stored at too low a temperature, you risk compromising its taste and aroma. Before serving the wine, keep it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes (for whites and rosés) or at room temperature for 15-20 minutes (for reds).
In conclusion, storing wine properly during the summer is essential to preserve its flavor and aromatic characteristics and not irreparably ruin fine labels. A cool, well-insulated cellar is the ideal place for long-term storage, while the refrigerator can be a temporary alternative. Avoid exposure to direct sun and heat, and choose bottles sealed with natural cork. Finally, remember that at La Civiltà del Bere we are wine merchants by profession and we are here for you. If you need advice on buying wine online or would like to drop by our wine shop, we’ll be happy to help you as you choose from the best of theItalian wine industry! Store your wine the right way and enjoy a glass this summer!
