March 25, 2021 | Buying

Whether you’re a self-proclaimed wine connoisseur or a certified sommelier, you take pride in your wine collection at home and understand the value of a wine collection investment. When assessing your wine collection, a good question to ask yourself is “am I protecting my investment?”, “do I have a spot allocated to storing my collection?”, and “is it being stored properly?” Why not elevate that collection and put those worries at ease with your very own private wine cellar? Here are a few tips and tricks to creating your own personal wine cellar in your home.

 

What’s your style?

You don’t need to be a wine specialist to design your wine cellar, most people decide between two popular styles- modern or traditional. Contemporary and modern style wine cellars include pops of glass and stainless steel- wine cellars with glass storage allow for easy bottle display and identification. If you’re interested in more of a traditional style wine cellar, why not incorporate the more natural materials such as stone and wood? These wine cellars create a traditional European vibe taking you right back to the roots of the grape- literally.

 

Where should your wine cellar be located in your home?

More often than not, wine cellars are found in the basement- hence the word “cellar”, wine cellars date back over 3,700 years. Simply put, wine cellars are often found below ground level due to the prevention of temperature swings and exposure to natural light. Wine is a natural and perishable beverage that if left exposed to heat, light or fluctuations in temperature and humidity, can lead to spoiling. We wouldn’t want that, now would we? If the only amount of room you can sacrifice in your home is to convert a closet or to utilize the space under your stairs- that works too!

 

Make the space private and intimate

If you can afford the space and want to go the whole nine yards, you can easily create your own private wine bar experience by including a sitting and entertainment area within your wine cellar. This will allow you to sip a glass (or bottle) with guests and while transporting you on your own personal getaway- ideal for when you need to escape but not venture too far.

 

Temperature control is key

Aside from the location of your wine cellar being a top priority, another more important factor is the temperature controls and humidity levels. A balance of temperature and humidity is crucial for the proper storage and ageing of wine. Not enough humidity, causes corks to dry out and lead to wine oxidation. However, if wine is left in too humid of an environment it can lead to mould or fungal contamination. Consider investing in a wine cellar cooling system. Whether it be a split system, ductless, self-contained units or duct system, this will work wonders on keeping your collection at its prime. Include a cellar control system and sensor that provides consistent monitoring. These systems are all certainly worth the investment.

 

Don’t forget to fill up your wine cellar!

Located at 400 Spadina Ave. – Halpern Enterprises has been in the business of importing fine wines and spirits into Canada for over 65 years! You’re absolutely sure to find an old (or new) favourite within Halpern’s extensive portfolio. Why not grab a bottle (or case) from their exclusive selection. Contact our good friend and top Sommelier Jordan Alessi directly for orders and recommendations- jordan@halpernwine.com

 

Tips on how to properly store wine

  • Store it horizontally. Horizontal storage ensures that the cork stays moist, and therefore stays expanded. If the cork dries out it will shrink, and outside air will enter the bottles and ruin the wine.
  • Keep it cool. This is where wine cellars and wine fridges come into play, if the wine gets hot, even for a few minutes, It will lose its flavour.
  • Keep its temperature between 45 – 65° F. The ideal temperature for wine storage is 55 degrees Fahrenheit. For short-term wine storage, anything between 45-65 is acceptable (as long as the temperature doesn’t fluctuate too much).
  • Storing it long-term? Any wine that has a plan to be stored longer than 6 months should definitely remain in your wine cellar or refrigerator, temperature control and eliminating natural light is key.

Common mistakes

  • Don’t store wine in your refrigerator. Most aren’t humid enough for wine storage and may dry out the cork.
  • Don’t store wine on top of your fridge or any other appliance. The heat emanating from the appliance can spoil the wine, this includes being near an oven or stove.
  • If you are buying wine make it your last stopping spot. Wine left in a hot car will quickly reach the 75°F danger zone.

 

 

Whichever the design, make sure your wine cellar suits your individual needs and collection. If you’re looking for a home with more space to create your very own wine cellar, or just looking for more space to expand your collection, we can help! Let us help you find the home that is right for you so you don’t have to compromise on what’s important. Contact us today! We’re always here to help.