The key to preserving the quality and aging potential of sparkling wine lies in understanding how to store it. For short-term storage, keeping bottles upright is fine (but be sure to keep away from bright or artificial light). But if you plan to store sparkling wine for more than a month, these simple guidelines reveal all you need to know:
Store sparkling wine in a cool, consistent temperature environment (ideally between 13°C and 16°C). Find a spot away from heat sources and abrupt temperature fluctuations.
Position the bottle lying down to keep the cork moist and prevent oxygen from seeping in.
Store sparkling wine away from both direct sunlight and UV lighting. This prevents disruption of the delicate chemistry and aromas inside the bottle.
The right level of moisture is crucial for preserving wine corks. Not enough moisture and the cork could shrink (allowing too much oxygen in). Too humid and the cork could develop mould. Ideally, aim for a humidity range between 50 and 85%.
To safeguard sparkling wine, it’s advisable to store sparkling wine away from the kitchen, where humidity levels can be elevated.
Store sparkling wine in a place with minimal vibrations to prevent agitation and potential spoilage. Avoid excessive movement as this can lead to the release of carbon dioxide and affect the wine’s effervescence.
The key to storing sparkling wine is finding the perfect spot – somewhere cool, calm and collected. A specialised wine cellar or refrigerator is a great option, but there are excellent alternatives to be found in your home. A cellar or larder can offer good storage conditions, as can a well-placed cupboard away from light, vibrations and moisture.
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