Wine Cellar Basics

Many home trends come and go, but there is one trend that seems to be catching on and staying around. Wine cellars, like the bottles of wine they hold, seem to keep getting better with time. Wine connoisseurs come in all shapes and sizes, and wine cellars are being found in all types of homes.

If you are thinking about adding one of your own, follow these steps from Victor Trappe, owner of Cellars Limited:

Step #1--Climate-controlled or not?
Wine keeps longer stored at a consistent and appropriate temperature. But, if you are more of a wine consumer and less of a wine collector, climate-control is not as necessary. Here's an overview of appropriate temps:

Champagne=43 degrees
Dry German Wines, Riesling=45 degrees
Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc=48 degrees
Sauternes=50 degrees
Beaujolais, Rose=54 degrees
Rioja, Pinot Noir, Chianti, Zinfandel=61 degrees
Cabernet Sauvignon, Burgundy=63 degrees
Bordeaux, Shiraz=65 degrees

Step #2--Lay the groundwork.
If it is going to be climate-controlled, a vapor barrier, insulation and cooling unit need to be installed.

Step #3--Design the components.
Decide whether you want more of a practical, useful cellar or one with lots of design elements. Most people will be in-between, choosing one wall as a focal point and going from there.

Step #4--Installation.
Generally, the process takes 6 weeks, start to finish. Cost is determined on per-bottle space requirements. Basic unfinished redwood racks start at $5.50 per bottle space.

Thank you to Victor Trappe of Cellars Limited for this information.