How a Wine Cooler and Fridge Can Help Preserve Your Cabernet Sauvignon and White Zinfandel

Keep your Cabernet Sauvignon and White Zinfandel at the ideal serving temperature by using wine refrigerators. Certain wine refrigerators, like the KitchenAid Undercounter Wine Cellar (R), regulate the interior humidity to protect labels and wine from mould.

Traditional refrigerators have plenty of risks that could contaminate your wine's rich flavours. This is why designated wine fridges exist.

The Ideal Temperature

A wine refrigerator is an excellent way to keep a collection of wines in the optimal serving temperature, making it easier for you to serve them in the best possible way. To keep the aroma and taste of the wine and to slow the process of aging, the temperature must be consistent and stable. The temperature should be a little cooler than ambient temperature to ensure that the wine cooler fridge doesn't get too cold, which can diminish the flavors.

The top wine coolers are made to keep the temperature between 54 and 57 degrees Fahrenheit (11 and 14 Celsius). This temperature range is ideal for storage over a long period because it slows down maturing process and keeps the wine from drying out. However, the temperature should not be too low, since this could lead to oxidation and other issues.

You can use a single-zone wine fridge that can keep all your wine collection or purchase a dual-zone wine refrigerator that lets you separate the wine into two distinct zones to control the temperature. For instance, you can store your red wines in one area and your white wines in the other and easily serve them at the right temperature for each kind of wine. This will enhance the drinking experience and help you to host a cocktail party or dinner, since you can simply move the bottles into the appropriate zone the night before.

Certain models of wine refrigerators have a user manual that contains specific information about temperature settings. It is essential to read this document carefully to become familiar with the particular temperature control features of your wine cooler. It is also recommended to regularly check the wine refrigerator temperature, as fluctuations can occur. Keep the wine fridge away from heat sources and sunlight to prevent it from overheating. It is best to not open the wine refrigerator too often, as this may cause the temperature to fluctuate.

Humidity Control

Humidity plays a crucial role in the storage of wine. Low humidity levels can cause seals and corks to dry out. This weakens the seal and allows oxygen to enter the bottle. This can affect the taste of the wine and can cause off-flavors. High humidity levels promote the growth of mildew and mold which can affect the labels on wine bottles. A wine cooler with integrated humidity control can help you attain optimal aging conditions for your wine collection.

The ideal range of humidity is 50% to the 80% mark. Some wine fridges feature a dehumidifying feature that helps regulate humidity by removing excess moisture. This is crucial because high levels of humidity can damage the quality and legibility of wine labels. The consistent humidity levels also aid in even aging and the development of complex flavors over time.

Simple and easy-to-implement humidification methods are available for your wine refrigerator. The most popular method is to place a small tray of water in the base of your refrigerator. As time passes the water will evaporate and increase the humidity in your wine refrigerator. You can also install a humidifier that is made for small spaces. Some are energy-efficient and provide an adjustable humidity setting.

Another alternative is to make use of baking soda, which is a natural water-absorbing properties. Simply open the baking soda container and place it strategically in your fridge to reduce moisture. Similarly, you can use silica gel packets, which are commonly used in packaging of products such as electronics and food, to absorb moisture. Just be sure to change them regularly.

Some wine refrigerators have humidity control systems in them which automatically regulate humidity levels in accordance to pre-set parameters. These are typically more accurate than passive methods, and can be particularly beneficial if you own an extensive wine cellar that has varying humidity requirements for different types of wines. Professional custom wine cellars also have built in wine refrigerator-in cooling units which provide a controlled temperature for aging your collection. They are generally best suited for high-value wines that require a stable and secure environment to age.

Noise Reduction

Wine refrigerators and coolers are great investments for those who wish to preserve the quality of their wines. These appliances can generate noise during operation that could be distracting or disruptive. There are fortunately various ways to reduce the level of noise created by these units.

Compressor cycling is a major source of noise in wine refrigerators. The process involves circulating refrigerant in order to cool the interior of the fridge, and can generate groaning or buzzing sounds. It is therefore essential to put the fridge on a flat and stable surface in order to prevent noise and vibrations.

Internal Vibrations

The sound of scraping and rattling that are caused by bottles rubbing against one another or against the shelves is a different source of noise in the wine refrigerator. This can be reduced by making sure that the bottles are securely stored and tightly packed together to minimise movement. To reduce the sound, it is recommended to use wooden racks or shelves instead of metal.

The level of noise emitted from a wine refrigerator can be reduced by ensuring the proper airflow. Regularly cleaning the refrigerator is important to remove dust and debris which can build up and block with the flow of air. It is also recommended to place an isolation pad made of rubber beneath the fridge. This will help to separate it from the hard flooring and minimize any vibrations which can create noise.

Typically, wine refrigerators generate 35 to 45 decibels in normal operation. This is comparable to background noise heard in a quiet suburban home or library, and is thought to be a relatively low amount of noise for a device.

If your wine refrigerator is making louder noises than usual, it's often recommended to consult the manufacturer's troubleshooting manual or request an expert to come out and repair it. This will let you know if the appliance is working as it should or if there is an issue that is more serious at hand. The technician can diagnose the issue and correct it if necessary.

Versatility

While refrigerators are great for keeping beverages cold, if you're looking to preserve and mature your wine, a regular refrigerator will not provide the ideal setting to do this. Using a wine cooler instead will ensure that your bottles are at their optimal temperature, protected from harmful vibrations and maintains an extremely high humidity to ensure the best storage and flavor.

The typical fridge is opened multiple times a day which allows moist air to enter the refrigerator which causes the temperature to fluctuate. This can harm the wine as it takes time for the temperature to return to a normal. A wine fridge however, typically has a lock as well as fewer openings reducing the temperature and exposure to air. In addition, wine refrigerators usually include a vibration absorption device which helps to ensure that your wine is not damaged caused by the compressor vibration.

Besides the dangers of temperature fluctuations, a wine refrigerator will also block unwanted smells from contaminating the wine bottle because of odors from other foods stored in the refrigerator. This can negatively impact the flavor of your wine, and leave a strong odor on the cork that can be absorbed into the wine.

Additionally wine refrigerators will be capable of storing white and red wines. It is also often equipped with display shelves designed for holding your bottles upright in order to showcase their beautiful label artwork. Some wine fridges even offer dual zone settings that allow you to chill, store and age wine at their own distinct temperatures. A wine & beverage refrigerator fridge is a must for every home, whether you are a big wine fridge enthusiast or just love sharing wines with friends. They are available in a wide variety of sizes and styles including freestanding units as well as undercounter and built-in models so you can fit them into any space in your home. Find the perfect wine fridge.