A Sommelier’s Warning: Never Store Wine in These 6 Places

If you’re keeping wine on top of the fridge, experts advise against it. Storing wine is not just about having space; it’s about creating the right environment to preserve its quality. A wine fridge can provide the ideal conditions, but there are common places in the home that can harm your bottles.

Many people know the basics of wine storage—keeping them out of direct sunlight and in a cool, dry place—but they may be making mistakes unknowingly. Here’s what experts suggest about common storage faux pas:

1. On Top of the Fridge
   The heat emitted from the top of your fridge can negatively impact wine in just days. Sommelier Beki Miller explains that refrigerators generate heat and vibrate, which accelerates the aging process and degrades quality. She suggests placing wine in an interior closet or even under the bed, where it remains dark and stable.

2. Kitchens Are Off Limits
   Contrary to popular belief, kitchens are not good wine storage areas due to frequent temperature changes caused by various appliances. Liz Martinez, another sommelier, points out that heat from stoves and dishwashers can lead to detrimental temperature spikes. Garages can similarly fluctuate and are often too unstable for proper wine storage.

3. In Your Car
   The journey from the store to home poses a risk for wine quality. During transport, especially in warm weather, temperatures can quickly rise, cooking the wine before it’s even opened. Wine should always be the last stop when running errands, and insulated bags can help mitigate heat during the drive.

4. Myth About Aging
   Not all wines are meant to be aged. In fact, many are best enjoyed young. Understanding which wines require aging is crucial, as prematurely aging a wine can lead to loss of its intended flavor profile. Full-bodied reds may benefit from some age, while lighter whites and everyday wines do not.

5. The Garage
   Similar to kitchens, garages can experience fluctuating temperatures which are detrimental to wine. While a wine fridge can be beneficial if placed in a garage, simply using the garage for traditional storage is not advisable.

6. Wine Fridge Makes a Difference
   While not strictly necessary, investing in a wine fridge can simplify proper storage. If you decide to forgo a wine fridge, cool, dark locations are still ideal—like a closet or the basement—provided it is not too humid.

Storage Temperature

Wine should ideally be stored at consistent temperatures between 50 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit. More delicate wines like Champagne should be kept cooler, around 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Overall, creating a suitable storage environment is essential for maintaining the quality of your wine. As long as you avoid common pitfalls, your wine bottles can stay in peak condition, ready for enjoyment.