If you’re thinking about storing your wine in a cupboard or cabinet, there are a few key factors to consider first. The right setup will keep your bottles organised, accessible and in the best possible condition for enjoyment.
Why Store Wine in a Cupboard?
Storing wine in a cupboard is a smart solution for anyone short on space or without a dedicated wine area. It makes use of existing storage while keeping your bottles neatly organised and out of sight. This approach is ideal for wines you’d prefer not to display or for creating a discreet, tidy kitchen setup.
Cupboards can also offer practical benefits. Many are cool, dark and stable in temperature, which helps preserve wine quality for short-term storage. If your cupboards are lockable, they provide an added layer of security, keeping your collection safe from curious children or teenagers.
How to Choose the Right Cupboard for Wine Storage
You can technically store wine in almost any cupboard, whether it is in the kitchen, pantry, hallway or even a wardrobe. However, to keep your bottles in good condition, it is worth being selective about where you place them.
Look for a cupboard with stable temperature, low light and moderate humidity. Avoid areas near ovens, fridges or dishwashers, as these appliances give off heat that can affect your wine. Likewise, cupboards exposed to direct sunlight, especially during summer, can become too warm inside.
Minimise movement and vibration by choosing a cupboard that is not frequently opened for other storage. Finally, ensure the space is deep enough for bottles to lie horizontally, which keeps corks moist and helps prevent spoilage.
How to Store Wine in a Cupboard
Storing wine vertically in a cupboard for long periods is not recommended, as it can cause corks to dry out and increase the risk of spoilage. The best way to store wine is horizontally, which keeps corks moist and helps preserve the wine’s quality.
To do this effectively, you need a wine rack. Traditional bulky racks often do not fit inside most cupboards, which can make organising your collection difficult. A modular system, such as Vinrac wine racks, can be adjusted to fit almost any cupboard, maximising your storage space.
Our racks are free-standing, so there is no need to install them or alter your cupboard. For taller configurations over one metre high, simple bracketing is recommended for extra stability. This makes it easy to create a safe, organised and flexible wine storage solution in your kitchen.
FAQ
Where is the best place to store wine in a house?
The best place to store wine is in a cool, stable environment, ideally below 18 degrees Celsius. Avoid spots near windows, ovens, heaters or other appliances that generate heat. Choose a location that is quiet and rarely disturbed to prevent bottles from being bumped or exposed to vibration.
How to store wine in a cabinet?
Wine should be stored horizontally to keep corks moist and maintain quality. Using a modular wine rack is ideal, as it can be adjusted to fit the unique dimensions of your cupboard and make the most of your available space.
How long can wine sit in a cabinet?
When stored at a stable temperature with moderate humidity and kept horizontally, most everyday wines can last 1 to 3 years. Premium or age-worthy wines can be stored for 5 to 10 years, depending on their style and quality.
Can I store wine in the pantry?
Yes, wine can be stored in a pantry as long as the temperature is stable and the bottles are placed on a secure shelf that is not frequently disturbed. If you have a butler’s pantry, make sure bottles are kept away from appliances that generate heat to protect the wine’s quality.
Can I store wine in my wardrobe?
Technically, yes, but wardrobes are often subject to movement and disturbance, which can negatively affect the wine. It is better to store bottles in a quieter location with minimal foot traffic to keep them stable and maintain their quality.
