Red wine is one of the most popular drinks around the world, including in Singapore. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of the best red wine in Singapore at a fancy restaurant or are considering to buy wine online for your home, it’s essential to understand how to store it correctly.
One common question that many people ask is whether keeping red wine in the fridge really stops it from going bad.
In this article, with the assistance of Benchmark Wines, we’ll explore this topic in-depth and provide you with all the necessary information to help you keep your red wine in optimal condition.
Understanding How Red Wine Goes Bad
To understand whether keeping red wine in the fridge stops it from going bad, you must first understand how red wine goes bad. When exposed to oxygen, red wine can spoil and lose its flavor, aroma, and color. This process is known as oxidation and can be accelerated by exposure to heat and light. Once the wine has oxidized, it will taste sour and vinegary, and you won’t be able to enjoy it as you would enjoy fresh red wine.
How to Store Red Wine
The best way to store red wine is to keep it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Ideally, you should store red wine at a temperature of around 12-16°C, which is slightly below room temperature. It’s also essential to store your red wine horizontally, as this keeps the cork moist and prevents it from drying out, which can allow air into the bottle and spoil the wine.
Does Keeping Red Wine in the Fridge Stop It From Going Bad?
Now that you understand how red wine goes bad and how to store it correctly, let’s answer the big question: does keeping red wine in the fridge stop it from going bad?
The short answer is yes. Refrigeration can help slow down the oxidation process, which is the main cause of red wine spoilage. However, it’s important to note that refrigeration isn’t the best storage solution for all types of red wine.
If you’re storing a bottle of red wine that you plan to drink within a week or so, refrigeration is an excellent option. Simply place the bottle in the fridge and let it chill for a few hours before opening. However, if you’re storing a bottle of red wine that you plan to keep for a more extended period, such as a few months or even years, refrigeration may not be the best option.
When you store red wine in the fridge for an extended period, the cold temperature can affect the wine’s flavor and aroma. The wine may become dull and flat, and the flavors may not be as pronounced as they would be at room temperature. If you’re storing a bottle of red wine for the long term, it’s best to store it in a cool, dark place at room temperature or slightly below.
Tips for Storing Red Wine
Now that you know the basics of storing red wine, let’s look at some tips that will help you keep your red wine in optimal condition.
Choose the Right Storage Location
When storing red wine, it’s crucial to choose the right location. Avoid storing wine in areas that are exposed to direct sunlight or heat sources, such as near a window or a stove. Instead, choose a cool, dark location, such as a cellar or a closet, that is away from any sources of heat or light.
Store Wine Horizontally
As we mentioned earlier, storing wine horizontally keeps the cork moist and prevents air from entering the bottle. This is especially important if you’re storing wine for an extended period, as a dry cork can allow air to enter the bottle and spoil the wine. If you don’t have a wine rack or cellar, you can store your wine on its side in a cardboard box or a wine cooler.
Keep the Temperature Consistent
Fluctuations in temperature can cause the wine to spoil quickly, so it’s important to keep the temperature consistent. Avoid storing wine in areas that are exposed to extreme temperatures, such as a garage or a porch. Instead, choose a location that has a consistent temperature, such as a basement or a closet.
Avoid Vibrations
Vibrations can also cause the wine to spoil quickly, as they can disturb the sediment in the bottle and cause it to mix with the wine. Avoid storing wine in areas where it may be subject to frequent vibrations, such as near a washing machine or a loud stereo.
Know When to Drink the Wine
Finally, it’s important to know when to drink the wine. While some red wines can be aged for many years, others are best consumed within a few years of bottling. Before storing wine for an extended period, make sure you know how long it can be aged and when it will be at its best. If you’re unsure, ask the wine seller or consult online resources for guidance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, red wine is a delicious and popular drink that should be stored correctly to maintain its flavor, aroma, and color. While keeping red wine in the fridge can help slow down the oxidation process and prevent spoilage, it’s not always the best solution for long-term storage. To keep your red wine in optimal condition, choose a cool, dark location away from heat sources and sunlight, store the wine horizontally, and keep the temperature consistent. By following these tips, you can enjoy a glass of the best red wine in Singapore, whether you’re drinking it at a fancy restaurant or buying it online for your home.