Humidity in the wine cellar

Humidity in the wine cellar plays a crucial role in the development and storage of wine. Both too high and too low humidity can lead to undesirable effects, affecting the wine's taste and quality. In this guide, we will look at why it is so important to maintain the right humidity in the wine cellar and how you can create the best conditions for your wines, ensuring they retain their optimal quality over time.

How humidity affects wine storage

Humidity plays a crucial role in how your wine is stored and develops over time. If the humidity is too low, it can cause the corks on the wine bottles to dry out. This can create small cracks in the cork, allowing air to enter the bottle, which can lead to oxidation of the wine and negatively affect both its taste and quality.

On the other hand, if the humidity is too high, it can lead to mold growth on the corks and labels, as well as the formation of moisture on the bottles, which can cause bad odors and an unpleasant experience when you open the bottle. Additionally, it can damage the labels, making the bottles less attractive to collectors and giving a bad impression of the wine’s quality.

To avoid these problems, it is important to maintain a stable level of humidity in the wine cellar. It is recommended that the humidity be kept between 50-80% to ensure that the corks remain in good condition and that the wine is stored under ideal conditions. This provides both the wine and the cork with the necessary protection to prevent damage to the bottles and ensure that the wine matures properly.

By monitoring and controlling the humidity, you can extend the wine’s shelf life and preserve its quality throughout the storage process. This is especially important for wine bottles that are to be stored for many years, as the right humidity helps preserve the wine’s aroma and taste over time.

The humidity in our wine cellars

Your wine cellar will naturally be affected by the surroundings it is placed in, especially the soil and ground around it. The humidity in a wine cellar can vary depending on where it is located, and these factors are something we cannot directly control. For example, if the wine cellar is placed in a soil type with high natural humidity, this can contribute to a higher level of humidity inside the cellar, which can be beneficial for wine storage. On the other hand, if the wine cellar is placed in an area with dry conditions or poorly insulated ground, the humidity may be lower than ideal, which can lead to problems for wine storage.

A wine cellar built below ground level or in a naturally cool area can experience higher humidity, as the ground acts as a natural moisture source. In areas where the climate is drier, the ground may draw out moisture, making it difficult to maintain a stable humidity level. Therefore, it is important to consider the natural soil type and location of the wine cellar to ensure the humidity is sufficient for optimal wine storage.

For wine cellars with soil contact, it is important to be aware that we cannot always control the humidity in the same way as in wine cellars with mechanical moisture control. Therefore, it is essential to consider where the wine cellar is located, as well as any natural factors that could affect both temperature and humidity over time. A wine cellar in a high-humidity area may be more ideal for long-term storage, while a wine cellar located in a dry place may require additional measures to ensure that the humidity remains stable at an appropriate level.

Our recommendation is that you regularly monitor the environment around the wine cellar, especially if it is located below ground level or in an area with fluctuating humidity, to ensure that your wine is stored under the best conditions.

Wine has different needs

It is important to be aware that different types of wine have different needs when it comes to storage. While some wines can be stored under relatively simple conditions, more expensive or delicate wines may require specific conditions to ensure they retain their quality and develop optimally over time. We are not wine experts, and therefore, we recommend that you consult a professional wine expert if you plan to store valuable or rare wines. An expert will be able to provide you with detailed advice on temperature, humidity, placement, and other factors that could be crucial for preserving the wine’s quality in the long term.

Common mistakes people make with humidity in the wine cellar

Maintaining the correct humidity in the wine cellar is crucial to preserving the quality of your wine. However, many wine enthusiasts make common mistakes that can affect the wine’s condition and long-term durability. Here are some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Too high humidity: When humidity is too high (above 80%), it can lead to mold growth and unpleasant odors in the wine cellar. High moisture levels can also damage the labels on the bottles and soften the corks, which can result in leaks and oxidation of the wine. To avoid this, consider using a dehumidifier or ensure proper ventilation in the wine cellar.
• Too low humidity: If humidity is too low (below 50%), the corks can dry out and lose their ability to seal tightly, allowing air to come into contact with the wine and spoil it. To avoid this, it’s important to maintain a stable humidity level between 60-70%. You can use a humidifier to stabilize the humidity if needed.
• Poor ventilation: A wine cellar needs proper airflow to prevent humidity from becoming too high and to ensure that odors and unwanted moisture do not build up. Without sufficient ventilation, it can lead to poor air quality, mold growth, and other issues. Make sure your wine cellar is well-ventilated and not placed in a sealed room without air circulation.
• Incorrect placement of the wine cellar: The wine cellar should be placed in a location where it is not exposed to extreme temperature or humidity conditions, such as near a window or heat source. Such locations can lead to undesirable fluctuations in both temperature and humidity, which can damage the wine. Ensure the wine cellar is placed in a stable location, preferably in a room without extreme temperature changes.

By avoiding these common mistakes and taking the necessary precautions, you can create an optimal storage environment for your wines, ensuring they remain in perfect condition for many years to come.

Other factors that affect the quality of wine in the wine cellar and how to avoid them

To ensure your wines are stored optimally, it is important to pay attention to several factors such as temperature, light, vibrations, and the placement of the wine cellar.

1. Temperature
Some wines should be stored at a consistent temperature between 10-15°C to avoid damaging the cork and the wine’s quality. Use a wine fridge or wine cellar with temperature control to maintain stable conditions.

2. Light
Direct sunlight and UV rays can damage the wine’s taste and aroma. Make sure the wine cellar is dark, or use shelves with glass doors that filter out UV rays.

3. Vibrations
Vibrations can disrupt the wine’s development and affect the taste. Place the wine cellar in a location with minimal vibration, and ensure the shelves are stable.

4. Placement
Choose a well-ventilated room with controlled temperature and humidity, and avoid heat sources nearby to maintain stable conditions.

By considering these factors, you can ensure your wines are stored under optimal conditions and develop in the best possible way.

Contact us for assistance with your wine cellar

Are you unsure about which wine cellar is best for your needs, or do you have questions about how the wine cellar can optimize storage conditions for your wines? Don't hesitate to contact us! Our experienced team is ready to provide you with advice and guidance, so you can make the best choice for both wine storage and decoration. We are happy to assist you with anything we can.