Cellar Secrets: Tips to Store, Serve, and Enjoy Wine

As a wine lover, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of popping open a new bottle and letting it breathe before taking that first sip. But between uncorking, storing, and serving, a lot of care goes into making sure your wine is at its best. That’s why we’ve put together some tips and tricks on how to store, serve, and enjoy wine so that you can savour every last drop of your favourite bottle.

If you plan on storing your wine for more than a few days, keep it in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature and humidity level. Ideally, wine should be stored at a temperature between 7 to 18 degrees Celsius (45 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit) and a humidity level of 60 to 70%. The best places to store wine include a wine fridge, a basement, or a closet that doesn’t get too much light. Also, store your wine bottles on their side if they have a cork to keep it moist and prevent air from getting in.

When serving wine, the most important thing you can do is ensure it’s at the right temperature. Red wines should be served slightly below room temperature, between 15 and 18 degrees Celsius (59 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit). In contrast, white and rosé wines should be served at a cooler temperature, around 7 to 13 degrees Celsius (45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit). If you need to chill your wine quickly, try wrapping the bottle it in a wet teatowel and popping it in the fridge. Don’t forget to pour your wine into a proper glass – the shape of the glass can really make a difference in how the wine tastes and smells.

Now for the fun part – enjoying your wine! To get the most out of your bottle, try to take your time – savour the aroma, swirl the wine around in your glass, and take small sips. Sometimes, letting the wine breathe for a few minutes before drinking can also enhance the flavours and aroma. If you’re enjoying a meal with your wine, don’t be afraid to experiment with food and wine pairings – there are no hard and fast rules, so follow your taste buds and see what works best for you.

Check out a few of our wine and food pairing guides: Fun cheese and wine pairings, What to pair with Grenache, Chianti and food pairings and Pairings for Cabernet Sauvignon.

Indulging in the pleasures of wine doesn't have to dent your wallet. There's a treasure trove of affordable yet delightful options waiting to be explored in the world of wine. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the wine scene, consider exploring wines from lesser-known regions, trying out unique varietals, buying directly from vineyards, or shopping smart online through platforms like YourWines. Additionally, don't overlook house wines at restaurants and wine bars, often offering surprising quality without the premium price tag. With these tips, you can elevate your wine journey without compromising your budget.

Finally, here are a few additional tips for keeping your wine in tip-top shape. Avoid exposing your wine to direct sunlight, which can cause it to go bad. Don’t shake your wine bottles – some sediment is normal and won’t affect the taste. And if you’re unsure about whether a bottle of wine has gone bad, try smelling it – if it smells musty or off, it might be time to bid farewell to that bottle.

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a good bottle of wine; with these tips and tricks, you can ensure it’s at its best. Whether you’re storing, serving, or sipping your wine, remember these best practices to provide a delicious, satisfying experience. Cheers!