Jul

Custom Wine Racking: Why Store Wine Bottles Flat On Their Sides?

When talking about a wine cellar, a number of intricate considerations have to be made. These considerations are very important to be kept in mind as each of these plays a vital role in maintaining the taste of the wines. For example, the build of the cellar, the wine cellar doors, the humidity and the wine cellar racking.

Wine Cellars of Houston is a famous company of wine cellars that offers custom wine cellars along with effective suggestions regarding wine bottle storage. However, in this blog, we shall be talking about a very specific aspect of wine cellar racking i.e., the angle of the wine bottles. Be it wooden, wrought iron or metal custom wine racks, it is recommended that the wine bottles are stored flat on their sides in order to help them maintain their taste longer and age better.

Here are 4 reasons wine is stored on its side:

The Cork stays wet: Opting for a custom wine cellar racking system, will let you have the perfect stylish platform to place your wine bottles flat. This means the wine will be able to keep the cork wet. Keeping the cork wet prevents it from drying and shrinking which can lead air inside the bottle leading to faster oxidation and ruining of the taste and speeding up the aging process.
Maintained oxidation: When you store wines horizontally the wine bottles are stored flat in your custom wine racks, the air inside the wine bottle gets more room to play. This helps for sustained oxidation that allows the wine to age better. Although it may sound like there is not much difference in storing a bottle on its side or let it stand, it does make a lot of difference to the wine’s aging. Hurrying is not something we can afford with wines.
Long-term Aging: Oxidation hampers the aging process. That’s why the best tip on how to store wine properly stresses horizontal placement. When the bottle has space to breathe, and the cork is fully hydrated, the wine ages well over time.
Space Optimization: Upright storage would require more space, especially between racks. If your chosen space for storing your wine is in a closet or a basement that’s not very spacious, horizontal storage is the best option. The thing to know for storing wine bottles upright is that you get more space to add to your collection!

Wine Cellars of Houston is a renowned manufacturer of the best wine cellars in Houston, that offers custom designs for wrought iron, and custom wood wine racks, cellars, wine cellar doors, wine room, and wine cellar furniture, along with their wine cellar restoration and wine rack repair. They also provide effective recommendations for cooling units. To have the perfect wine racking, be it for your home or business, contact Wine Cellars of Houston today. Just dial 281-271-7045.

FAQs

Why are wine bottles stored lying down?

Wine bottles are stored lying down to keep the cork moist. When a cork’s in contact with the wine, it stays soft and swells, creating a tight seal. If the bottle’s upright, the cork dries out, shrinks, and lets air in – which can spoil the wine.

Can Screw-Top Wine Be Stored Upright?

Screw-top wines can be stored upright, no problem. Since they’re sealed with a metal cap, there’s no cork to dry out, so gravity’s not an issue.

Is It Safe To Drink Wine With Sediment?

Sediment in wine is usually harmless. It’s just dead yeast cells or tannins. For older red wines, it’s normal. Just decant carefully to leave the sediment behind, and you’re good to go.

How to Store Wine Properly?

Here’s how to store wine:

– Lay it down (for cork-sealed bottles)

– Store it in a cool, dark place (10-15°C is ideal)

– Keep away from direct sunlight and vibrations

– Maintain consistent humidity (50-70%)

– Organize by type and vintage

Is it okay to store wine horizontally?

For cork-sealed wines, horizontal storage’s the way to go. It keeps the cork moist and the wine fresh. Screw-top wines can be stored either way, though.