Temperature is an unobserved and time and again neglected factor in storing and drinking red wine. It can bring the best and worst out of a bottle of wine. Because of neglecting temperature factor, many great wine collections have been damaged. The ideal temperature to keep wine is between 50 and 60°F.
Temperature is an important long-term storage factor for red wine. Wines are mainly composed of organic ester that gives wine its distinctive flavor and the complex biochemical compound gives wine its main character. The balance of these chemicals is to be best and the reaction between these chemicals is important then only the wine ages well and tastes great. Hence 56-60° F temperature is most favorable as this temperature provides maximum number of complex organic ester reactions to give wine its character.
Moisture is one another important factor to be considered when storing a red wine. Ideal humidity for wine storage ranges from 60-75% RH.
Tips for storing red wine at correct temperature
1. Keep the wines away from sunlight and heat exposure as Ultraviolet light causes premature aging of wines.
2. Wine is stored horizontally so that the wine is in contact with the cork at all times, keeping the cork wet.
3. A fridge is not an apt place to keep wine as vibrations will destroy some of its components. You can store them in cellars, special wine fridge, rooms where temperature can be controlled or in some areas local wine stores offers wine storage services.
4. Wine needs a constant temperature all year round to mature. Large instability in temperature can damage the wine and the cork of the wine bottle. High temperatures make wines age faster. It may also cause alcohol separation. Cool temperatures slow the aging process. Also if it’s too low then deposits or other suspensions may develop in the wine.
5. Always remember to store wine away from strong smelling compounds and foods as that smell can penetrate into a weak cork and eventually can change a wine’s basic character.
Tips for serving wine at correct temperature
The optimal serving temperature differs for various wines, depending on their grape variety and their region.
• Light red wine— 54 – 57 degrees F.
• Rich, red and full bodied wines—59 – 68 degrees F.
• Rich, intense Bordeaux is served 1-2 degree below room temperature (~18°C).
• Light, fruity red Beaujolais is best served at least 6 degree (~12°C) below room temperature.
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