Handling Wine
Wine should be handled, stored and served the best possible way.
Serving Temperatures
The ideal serving temperature for wine varies depending on its type, as different temperatures can change flavors and aromas.
Sparkling Wines should be serve at around 6-10°C (43-50°F). Cooler temperature preserves the bubbles and keeps the wine refreshing.
White Wines are best served chilled, around 7-10°C (45-50°F). This temperature range enhances the wine's acidity and freshness.
Rosé Wines should be served chilled at around 7-10°C (45-50°F) to highlight its crispness and fruitiness.
Light-Bodied Red Wines can be served slightly chilled at around 12-14°C (54-57°F) to emphasize their delicate flavors without muting them.
Medium-Bodied Red Wines are best served at around 14-15°C (57-59°F), slightly cooler than room temperature.
Full-Bodied Red Wines are best served at around 17-18°C (63-64°F), at room temperature, to allow the wine's complex flavors and aromas to unfold without being overwhelmed by alcohol.
Sweet Wines are often served slightly chilled, around 50-60°F (10-16°C), to balance their sweetness with refreshing acidity.
| Style | Example | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Sparkling Whites | Champagne Prosecco |
6-10°C 43-50°F |
| Light and Dry Whites | Chablis Pinot Grigio |
7-10°C 45-50°F |
| Rosé Wines | Provence Rosé Italian Rosato |
7-10°C 45-50°F |
| Full Body Whites | Soave Classico Gruner Veltliner |
10-12°C 50-54°F |
| Full Body Oaked Whites | Chardonnay Viognier |
12-14°C 54-57°F |
| Light Reds | Beaujolais Valpolicella |
12-14°C 54-57°F |
| Medium Reds | Chianti Merlot |
14-15°C 57-59°F |
| Rich Reds | Côtes du Rhône Tempranillo Zinfandel |
15-16°C 59-61°F |
| Rich Oaky Reds | Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah/Shiraz |
17-18°C 63-64°F |
| Dessert Wines | Eiswein | 6-8°C 43-46°F |
| Sweet Wines | Port Sauternes |
10-16°C 50-60°F |
Storing Wine
Wine should be stored in a cool, dark, and relatively humid environment.
Temperature fluctuations will spoil the wine. If possible, use a dedicated wine cellar.
For long time storage of wine, these table should be followed:
| Constant temperature 7 - 18°C (45 - 65°F) |
| Good Humidity 50 - 80% |
| No direct sunlight |
| No strong vibrations |
| No strong odors |
| Store bottles horizontally |
Bottles should be stored horizontally to the keep corks moist