How to Store Wine at Home (Without Needing the Fancy Gear)

If you’ve started building your wine collection (even if it’s just a few bottles), you’ve probably wondered how to keep them at their best. Don’t worry, the fix is easier than you think. 

We’ve all been there; saving that bottle of Shiraz for a weekend away, only to open it weeks later and find it’s gone off. It’s not the wine, it’s how it was stored. 

Wine doesn’t like chaos - heat, light, and sudden changes are its enemies. But with a few simple tips and tricks, you can keep every bottle tasting just as good as the day you bought it.

Tip#1: The Regular Fridge Trick

Forget the wine cellar, your fridge works perfectly fine. Yes, even for reds. Australia’s warm weather isn’t made for countertop storage, so tuck your bottles in the fridge instead. When you’re ready to pour, take out the reds 30 minutes before serving to bring to room temp.

Tip#2: When It’s Open, Don’t Wait Too Long 

Once opened, wine starts to change - a little air is good, too much is not. As a rule of thumb:

• Whites: up to 7 days
• Reds: a week and a half 

Drink your champagne and sparkling immediately, life’s too short to save bubbles.  And, no, that spoon is not going to help keep the bubbles in your Champagne.

Screwcaps are your friend. Just twist it back and you’re good.

Tip#3: Consider a Wine Fridge

If you’re falling deeper into the world of wine, a small wine fridge is a smart next step. A dual-zone model around $500 - $600 is perfect for a starter setup.

• Reds like it around 16°C
• Whites a touch cooler, about 11°C
• Store bottles on their side to allow for any sediment to settle on the bottle

Not ready to commit to a wine fridge? Not a problem. Just store the bottles somewhere dark and cool.

That’s it. You’re done. You’ve got smarter storage so your wine stays ready for the next slow evening or dinner with friends.