Who hasn’t dreamed of owning a fine Bordeaux or Burgundy, letting it mature over the years, and opening it for a truly special occasion?
But without proper storage conditions, that dream bottle might end up being a major disappointment. If red wine isn’t stored carefully, the experience when uncorking it could fall far short of expectations.

Red wine doesn’t stop evolving once it’s bottled—it continues to mature. To reach its full potential, a wine needs time and the right environment. Only then can its tannins and aromas develop into something truly remarkable.

So, what does it take to store red wine properly?

There are four key elements to keep in mind when storing red wine: temperature, darkness, humidity, and positioning.

Temperature

Fine red wines need time to reach their peak, and that process depends heavily on a stable temperature. Experts agree that the ideal range for aging red wine is between 11°C and 13°C (roughly 52°F to 55°F).
Sudden temperature changes are far more damaging than a few degrees off the ideal. It’s the thermal shock that poses the real threat—potentially causing irreversible damage to your wine.

Darkness

Wine is sensitive to light—both natural sunlight and artificial lighting. While it takes prolonged exposure to noticeably degrade a wine, it’s still best to store bottles in the dark. Reducing light helps protect the wine and gives it the best chance to age gracefully.

Humidity

Contrary to popular belief, a wine cellar should be humid, not dry. The ideal humidity level sits between 75% and 80%.
Glass is impermeable, so moisture won’t affect the wine itself—but the cork is another story. Natural corks, especially those used in fine and age-worthy wines, need moisture to stay supple and airtight. If the cork dries out, it can shrink or crack, allowing air into the bottle—which can cause oxidation or even evaporation over time.

Positioning

Wine bottles should always be stored horizontally.
Whether you use wine racks, shelves, or storage bins, keeping bottles lying down ensures the wine stays in contact with the cork. This contact keeps the cork moist and sealed, preventing air from sneaking in and ruining the wine.

Don’t have the perfect space for all this?
If your home doesn’t meet these storage conditions but you still want to age your finest reds properly, consider investing in a custom wine cellar. It’s the best way to ensure your bottles are stored in ideal conditions, no matter what’s happening outside.