Storing a bottle of wine in the refrigerator has always been a subject of debate. While some wine lovers categorically refuse, others are more nuanced. So let's find out if storing wine in the fridge is a good idea, and in which cases it is most appropriate.
Why is the fridge not the best storage space for your wines?
The refrigerator is particularly practical when you don't have a wine cellar. It then makes it possible to obtain a constant temperature and keep the wines cool . But the disadvantages are much more numerous, and make it a storage space to avoid as much as possible:
- The light turns on each time the fridge door is opened, which accelerates the aging process of the wine and activates oxidation;
- The motor generates permanent vibrations which prevent the stability and proper development of the wine;
- The air in the refrigerator is often very dry, which can damage the cork .
Keeping a bottle of wine in the fridge: suitable cases
All professionals and wine lovers are unanimous, it is better to avoid keeping a bottle of wine in the fridge until it is opened. It is then more appropriate to store them in a wine cellar , or in a space protected from light and temperature variations.
Indeed, a refrigerator does not present ideal storage conditions , since the temperature is too cold, and the bottle is exposed to light each time the door is opened.
On the other hand, there are certain situations where storing bottles of wine in the fridge can be recommended, or in any case tolerated:
- When the bottle is opened , you want to finish it quickly;
- To cool a wine that will be served with the next meal or aperitif;
- To store a bottle of white or rosé wine at a serving temperature close to that of a refrigerator.
What wines can be stored in the refrigerator?
Storing bottles of wine in the fridge mainly poses a problem in terms of temperature, which is often too cold. Indeed, most wines must be stored at an ideal temperature which varies depending on the type of wine:
- For red wines, between 14 and 18°C;
- For sweet and sweet white wines, as well as sparkling wines, between 8 and 10°C;
- For dry white wines and rosés, between 10 and 12°C.
It is therefore easy to understand that storing red wines in the fridge is not at all optimal. It is better here to store bottles of red wine in a wine cellar , or in a place with relatively cool room temperature.
For other wines, the wine cellar remains ideal, but the fridge can be an alternative just before serving, for a very limited period.
How long can you keep wine in the fridge?
Whether due to lack of space at home, or the need to cool a bottle for a nearby service, the refrigerator is always useful. But it is better not to store your bottles of wine in the fridge for too long (1 to 2 weeks maximum). In the case of already opened bottles, you can then keep them in the fridge for 1 to 3 days . Beyond that, the wine will have undergone excessive oxidation, which will make it undrinkable.
To fully enjoy a wine, you must be able to serve it at the right temperature and protect it from light, vibrations and dryness. The fridge is then not the best alternative, and it is better to invest in a wine cellar. On the other hand, the refrigerator remains a good alternative when the bottle is open.
