Wines, Wine Storage Conditions and Wine Cooling Systems

Written by CustomWineCellarsChicago

Both beginners and experts in wine collection must know the important conditions required to make a good wine last. The two vital aspects of proper wine storage conditions are temperature and humidity. To make sure that your custom wine cellar can provide the ideal temperature and humidity that your wines need, you need to purchase a good wine cellar refrigeration system.

Wine cooler refrigerators are units designed for storing wine. These units can regulate temperature and humidity effectively so that your wine collection will not get ruined.

The Difference between Wine Cellar Cooling Units and Air Conditioning Systems

There is a huge difference between wine cellar refrigeration units and air conditioning units. Although both can cool the room temperature, the latter cannot cool wine to the ideal level. A wine cellar cooling system does not just cool the room as an air conditioner does. It goes beyond that. A wine cellar cooling unit regulates and monitors the temperature and humidity so that they are kept at a constant level. This is important in wine storage because frequent fluctuations in temperature and humidity can damage your wines.

3 Major Custom Wine Cellar Cooling Systems

There are many different kinds of custom wine cellar cooling units to choose from on the market. The 3 most popular types are the Self-Contained Through-The-Wall units, the Ductless-Split type units, and the Ducted-Split Type units. Here is a more detailed discussion on these 3:

1. Self-Contained Through-The-Wall

This is the most cost-efficient type of custom wine cellar cooling unit. You simply mount the unit to an interior wall. The hot air inside the cellar will be vented out through the wall and into an adjacent room. This unit will also help lower the noise from the cooler. It is important to have a relatively big room for the exhaust air. Ideally, the adjacent room should be as big as your wine cellar.

2. Ductless-Split Type

This type of wine cellar cooling system does not come in one piece, but it is the more convenient and popular choice among wine collectors. Additionally, although this cooling system is more costly, it has a longer life expectancy. Another advantage of having this unit is that you do not need an adjacent room for exhausting hot air.

3. Ducted-Split Type

This is very similar to the ductless-split type cooling unit because you will hear no noise from its fan and you will not need any adjacent room for exhausted hot air. One of the best things about this wine cellar cooling system is that there is no visible equipment inside the wine cellar at all. This system is configured in such a way that it is the cool air that is ducted into and out of the wine cellar.

Chicago Wine Cellars – Guide to Hosting Wine Tasting Parties

Written by CustomWineCellarsChicago

Wine tasting parties are often engaged by enthusiasts and collectors to enhance and explore their experience and knowledge about wines and sometimes even to “show off” and display their collection in their wine cellars and wine storage cabinets.

Hosting a wine-tasting party need not be a chore or a burden. It could be (or should be) a fun and exciting activity. A wine-tasting party is similar to a book club where participants discuss the merits of a book and express their thoughts about what they read while also being open to other participants’ views and opinions. Below are some tips to guide you in hosting wine-tasting parties in your Chicago home wine cellar.

Wine tasting is best done with people who are not necessarily your good friends, but with people you are comfortable with and who share the same interest and appreciation of wines. When done at home, it is a good opportunity to display one’s collection in his or her Chicago custom wine cellar to fellow enthusiasts and share information.

Wine Tasting Parties in Chicago Home Wine Cellars – Tips to Follow

It is important for the host to determine what kind of wine tasting party he or she wants to give. Is it formal with rating and scorecards? Or is it informal where tasters can express their opinions and views freely?

Scorecards should indicate what tasters are focusing on, otherwise, guests can be given blank index cards to encourage them to take notes and thoughts to be shared with the group.

Is it a round table kind of wine tasting where guests are seated while discussing the merits of the wine? Or is it a free-flowing party where participants freely roam around and assess the wines and at the same time discuss the paintings on the walls and the wines in the host’s Chicago home wine cellar?

For the number of participants, 8-12 is a good number since the size is neither too small nor too big that one hesitates to share his views. It is also important to determine the number of wines to be tasted and whether it is a blind tasting or not.

Usually, 6 kinds of wine are used in wine tasting. Each person is served approximately 2 ounces of wine. Blind tasting occurs when the host decides to cover the label of the wine bottle with a brown bag and discuss its characteristics and merits.

It is not necessary for the host to prepare a full course meal to cap off the wine tasting. Finger foods can be served and shared after the wine tasting so as prolong the enjoyment of the party with fellow enthusiasts. During the tasting itself, bland or neutral tasting biscuits or bread can be served to cleanse the palette in between wines. Servings of light cheese will also do the trick.

The host must also prepare enough wine glasses for the guests. Each wine can be poured into one glass to be discarded right after, or a bucket with water for rinsing can be prepared for cleansing in between wines to avoid contamination of flavors. Guests are advised not to wear too much perfume which could distract wine tasters from smelling the real aroma of the liquid.

No matter how the host wants to stage his wine tasting party, what’s important is the sharing of ideas and thoughts with people with which one shares an interest and appreciation. Wine tasting parties are different and unique activities meant to be learned from, enjoyed, and enhance one’s experience.

Wine Cabinets & Wine Racks – Excellent Alternative Wine Storage Solutions

Written by CustomWineCellarsChicago

There are a few different ways of storing wines. They can be kept in a wine cellar, in custom wine racks perched on a kitchen countertop, placed in a corner of a room, or stacked carefully in a wine cabinet. Of all the aforementioned wine storage solutions, wine cellars are deemed the best place to store and age wines because they are designed in a climate-controlled environment.

Wine Cabinets by Wine Cellar SPecialists

Wine Cabinets Chicago by Wine Cellar SPecialists

Since not all wine collectors have access to a private wine cellar, wine cabinets Chicago can serve as efficient and affordable wine storage solutions. A wine cabinet functions like a mini wine cellar because it can provide the best possible wine storage environment on a smaller scale. Hence, they can be used for either short-term or long-term storage.

There are two types of wine cabinets: passive and active or refrigerated. Passive wine cabinets are not affixed with temperature and humidity controls. Most of these cabinets are constructed from wood and have various total bottle capacities. These storage cabinets are ideal for holding consumable wines.

Climadiff Wine Cabinets Chicago

Like active wine cellars, refrigerated wine cabinets are equipped with cooling systems that help maintain the temperature between 50 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit, and regulate humidity levels within 60% to 75%. Fluctuating temperatures can cause premature aging in wines, while constant humidity changes can dry out the corks and cause molds to grow.

Some wine cabinets have dual zone features that provide independent temperature controls. This setup allows for two separate storage compartments for different types of wines. These wine storage solutions are also known for their vibration-free and whisper-quiet operation.

To protect wine bottles from incandescent light, wine cabinets are outfitted with LED-based lighting. LED bulbs generate less heat and don’t give off ultraviolet rays. Some of these cabinets have adjustable light features that can help minimize the exposure of wine bottles to light.

Le Cache Wine Cabinets Chicago

A wine cabinet comes with custom wine racks that allow for horizontal storage. Laying wine bottles on their side allows the cork to continuously come in contact with the wine. Keeping the cork moist is essential to preserving the taste and flavor of wines. A dried-out cork can promote oxidation that could potentially ruin the quality of wines.

Wine cabinets are built with proper ventilation to facilitate better air circulation. This will prevent unwanted smells and odors from penetrating the cork and spoiling the wine. Good ventilation will also restrict possible mold infestation.

They are also multifunctional because some of them are designed with stemware racks that allow wine glasses to be hung right in the cabinet. They may also come with drawers that can provide storage space for various wine accessories such as corkscrews, stoppers, decanters, and other wine-related items.

Vinotheque Wine Cabinets Chicago

A wine cabinet is available in different storage capacities. They can accommodate regular-sized bottles to magnums. They have sufficient space to store a few bottles to over a hundred wines. In terms of aesthetics, their sleek and stylish designs can match and complement any home décor.

Wine cabinets are convenient and economical wine storage options for wine enthusiasts who can’t afford their own wine cellars. They provide a climate-controlled environment wherein wines can mature nicely. These cabinets also protect wines from breakage by providing secured storage spaces.

Click on these links to learn more about wine storage:
http://www.winecellarspec.com/choose-wine-cabinets-for-cost-efficient-wine-storage-solutions/
http://www.winecellarspec.com/wine-cellar-specialists-dallas-is-awarded-best-of-houzz-2013/
http://www.winecellarspec.com/what-type-of-wine-rack-is-best-for-your-wine-collection/

Wood – Widely Used by Chicago Wine Cellar Rack Manufacturers

Written by CustomWineCellarsChicago

With several wine rack designs, styles and sizes, it is best to assess your wine storage needs, location, and budget when choosing the right wine cellar rack for your collection. The material from which the wine rack is constructed contributes a lot to having a safe and beautiful resting place for your wines.

Why Wood is a Top Pick for Chicago Wine Rack Construction

Wine racks can be built out of a number of different materials, but the most common are made out of wood. The reason why wood is the top choice for constructing wine racks is because of its stability and beauty. Wooden wine racks can complement any existing décor and can create a distinctive look in a Chicago custom wine cellar.

The two most popular wood species that you can choose for your custom-made wine racks are mahogany and redwood. Most wine enthusiasts prefer mahogany wine racks because of their sturdiness, longevity, and high resistance to rot and warping. These wine cellar racks can blend easily into any existing interior.

If you choose mahogany as your wine rack material, your wines will be safe since it is resistant to moisture and stains. The quality of mahogany is exceptional which makes it expensive. You can easily find it in the marketplace, and it is also stylish and can bring out the elegance of your wine storage place.

Another reason why most Chicago wine cellar and wine rack manufacturers prefer mahogany is that it is easy to work with, not difficult to polish, and can last for years if cared for.

Another popular choice of wood of many wine cellar manufacturers is redwood. Chicago custom wine cellars constructed from redwood are beautiful and beneficial to your wines because redwood has a non-aromatic quality and is high resistance to warping, rot, and mildew.

The 2 types of redwood are all-heart and premium redwood which are both known for their aesthetic appeal and durability. The good thing about these types of redwood is their ability to stand out even when left unfinished.

Wood may not come in various shapes like metals, but its uniqueness and durability surpass it all. It gives you several options when it comes to design, style, and stain.
Are you in need of wine cellar racks? Feel free to contact Wine Cellar Specialists at 866-646-7089 or get a FREE 3D wine cellar design package at http://www.winecellarspec.com/free-3d-drawing/. Click here to view their wine cellar gallery.

Wine Storage – Some Basic Do’s and Don’ts of Storing Your Wine Collection

Written by CustomWineCellarsChicago

Proper storage is crucial to maintaining and preserving the quality of wines. Wines have the ability to improve their taste and flavor when stored under excellent conditions. However, they can deteriorate just as easily if exposed to unfavorable environmental factors, such as excessive light, temperature, humidity, odor, and vibration.

Wine Storage – The Do’s and Don’ts

Regardless of whether your wines are stored in a cellar, placed in a wine rack in a corner, or stacked neatly in a closet, following a few basic wine storage rules will help ensure that the taste and flavor of your collection will remain something for you to enjoy for a long period of time.

Wines need to be stored in dark places. They should be kept away from harmful light sources, such as fluorescent light and ultraviolet rays. Exposure to incandescent light can adversely affect the chemical compounds in wines and lead to premature development.

Wine Cellar Design, Proper Lighting, Climate Control & Insulation

In choosing a lighting system for your storage space, LED light bulbs are a good option. LED-based lighting is energy efficient and emits less heat. Installing light timers and dimmer switches can help reduce the amount of light that your wines are exposed to on a daily basis as well.

Regulating temperature and humidity levels is essential to maintaining wine quality. The ideal storage temperature is between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Fluctuating temperatures can accelerate the aging process and irreversibly damage wine. As to humidity level, keeping it within 60% to 75% should be enough to prevent the cork from drying out and restrict potential mold growth.

If the storage space is designed to be a climate-controlled environment, the size and configuration of the cooling system should be considered during the wine cellar design phase of the project. A proper wine cellar cooling system will efficiently provide a stable wine storage environment.

Wine Cellar Construction

During wine cellar construction, it is important to outfit your storage space with proper insulation and vapor barriers. Insulation will help maintain the desired temperature, while vapor barriers will help contain condensation build-up. These features provide better moisture control for your wine room and ensure that the cooling system will function to its full potential.

Although wine bottles can be stored either vertically or horizontally, it is recommended to store them on their sides to keep the cork in constant contact with the wine. This prevents it from drying out, which can cause oxidation and spoil the wine. Wine racks are built to hold wine bottles the right way. They are designed with a tilt that allows wine bottles to be stored at an angle.

Keep your wine bottles away from food or household items that give off pungent odors. Unsavory smells can seep in through the cork and taint the wine. Wherever you choose to keep your wine bottles, make sure that the storage space has proper ventilation, which helps improve the air quality in your wine room.

Vibration can also have a negative influence on the chemistry of wine. It has been said that vibration can be a contributing factor in the premature aging of wines. Avoid storing wines near machinery that produce vibratory motion. For wines to mature nicely, they require not only a stable environment but also a quiet atmosphere.

Therefore, it is important that you choose a wine cellar construction company that can help you come up with a wine cellar design that will safeguard your precious wines. You can visit these web pages to get started:
http://www.winecellarspec.com/
http://www.winecellarspec.com/wine-cellars/
http://www.winecellarspec.com/wine-cellars/#gallery

Facts About Wine Display Racks for Bulk Wine Storage

Written by CustomWineCellarsChicago

Wine racks are efficient ways of displaying and organizing small or large collections of wines. These storage devices allow wine bottles to be stored on their side, in order for the cork to maintain contact with the wine at all times. Keeping the cork moist prevents it from drying out and becoming brittle. A dried-out cork can promote oxidation which can then result in wine spoilage.

Check out these wine storage racks here!

Wine Storage Racks from Wine Cellar Specialists

Wine storage racks are manufactured from various materials such as wood, stainless steel, metal, and wrought iron. They come in a variety of styles, sizes, and configurations that can suit different needs and requirements. Most wine racks come with individual bottle storage compartments that secure wine bottles firmly in place. There are also racking systems that are designed to hold a dozen or so bottles in one compartment.

Bottle holders are meant for bulk wine storage providing convenience and versatility in terms of storage options. They can accommodate a large number of wine bottles of varying sizes, from split bottles to double magnums. Common examples of bulk wine storage racks are diamond bin shelves and case storage.

Diamond bin shelves provide better management of your wine collection. These racks are designed to facilitate proper airflow between wine bottles and they are ideal for long-term storage. Diamond bins have stackable features that allow you to add to the device as your wine collection expands. They are available in various styles and storage capacities.

Solid Tall Diamond Bin, Solid Individual Diamond, Solid X Bin, and Lattice X Bin are some of the most popular bin shelves on the market. These storage bins are elegantly crafted by Wine Cellar Specialists.

Click here to know more about custom wine racks!

Bulk Wine Storage Racks

Solid Tall Diamond bins have a storage capacity of 200 wine bottles. Solid Individual Diamond bins feature individual slots that can hold 95 bottles in total. Solid X bins come with an X divider and can hold around 44 wine bottles in each square. A Lattice X bin features lattice-style woodwork and it has a total capacity of 132 bottles.

Case storage is another type of bulk wine storage. This wine rack allows you to store wine bottles without removing them from their original cases. Case storage can accommodate both wood cases and cardboard cases. Wood case wine racks have narrow and short openings, while cardboard case wine racks feature narrow and tall openings. Some case storage racks have pull-out wine shelves for easy access.

Wood is the most common material used in making racking systems for bulk storage. The typical wood types used in construction are redwood, mahogany, and pine. Wood has an inherent beauty that can blend well with any decorating scheme. Some wood species are also naturally resistant to mold and mildew, which makes these storage devices perfectly suited for the damp conditions of a wine cellar.

Bulk wine storage racks are a great alternative to single-bottle storage because they offer flexible storage solutions. These racks can fit standard and large format bottles as well as case lots. They allow you to utilize your space in an effective and efficient manner.