Wine requires cool, dark, humid, and still surroundings. While, storing it is not the most complicated process, it is a very sensitive one.

There are a few key points to keep in mind that will help ensure your liquor has the very best chance for long-term survival and optimal aging. The best storage temperature is right around 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Any kind of excessive heat will potentially ruin a bottle of wine. You also want to shoot for consistent temperatures, since dramatic temperature fluctuations will negatively impact a stored bottle.

Humidity is another factor to keep in mind when storing liquor. A higher humidity level helps to keep the corks from shrinking and allowing oxygen in.

Allowing oxygen into the bottle may result in oxidation of the wine. The ideal humidity level is between 65-75 percent.

Most colored glass bottles have UV filters incorporated into the glass, but this does not necessarily offer full UV protection. If the drink is in direct light consistently, it will result in premature aging, which will affect the flavor significantly.

Typically, whites wines are the most sensitive to light degradation, but reds will also lose if they are subjected to excessive light. Even though the top of the refrigerator is one of the most popular places to store liquor at home, it is one of the worst places for it.

The top of the refrigerator may be so popular because of its ease of access, the fact that the kids cannot reach it, or the nice little racks that fit perfectly up there. Whatever the reason is, you would be wise to find a different place for your bottles.

The heat from the appliance and direct light from kitchen lights will degrade the quality. You also run the risk of bottles falling and breaking every time you open and close the refrigerator door.

In addition, the refrigerator tends to vibrate when the motor starts running, which is several times every day. The constant vibration of the refrigerator or other major appliances in close proximity just agitates the liquor and can keep the sediment from settling in a red wine.

By intentionally storing it on its side, you will help keep the cork in constant contact with the liquid. This will keep the cork moist, which should keep the cork from shrinking and allowing oxygen to seep into the bottle.

When oxygen comes into contact with the drink, the liquid starts to oxidize, and the aromas, flavors, and color all begin to spoil. While most people do not have onsite rock wall, caves, or underground cellar accommodations, there are plenty of options to mimic these ideal conditions.

Since, light and heat destroy the drink in very little time; make sure to protect it from both by finding a cool, dark spot to safeguard your liquor. Basements are ideal storage facilities since they typically meet the cool and dark requirements.

If a basement is not an option, then just keep the bottles in a cool closet. You can also consider purchasing a wine refrigerator.

These refrigerated cabinets come in a variety of sizes and price points, offering ideal storage conditions to as few as 4 bottles to over 600. Currently there are three ways to close a bottle of liquor, including natural cork, synthetic cork, and screw caps.

Natural cork closures have been used the longest; however, they allow the drink to develop a musty smell and taste. This comes from a substance used to sanitize the natural cork prior to bottling.

The result is a flat, moldy flavor devoid of fruit-filled taste and aroma. Synthetic corks are derived from plastic and appeared to be a viable alternative to traditional corks.

However, their inability to keep oxidation at bay for any real length of time significantly decreases the shelf life and short-changes the maturing process of select wines. Screw caps provide the best seal for bottles, and eliminate the oxidation problem.

While, screw caps do diminish the drama and romance of bottle opening, it does ensure a taint-free wine. It also offers consistent aging, maintained flavor, and freshness with optimum quality control.

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