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Why Store Your Precious Wines in Refrigerated Texas Wine Cellars

Have you experienced throwing away an expensive bottle of vintage wine because it tastes bad? If yes, you may be storing your collection in poor conditions. Wine Cellar Specialists, a master builder in Texas, recommends homeowners to invest in a climate-controlled wine cellar to protect your favorite vintages from the damaging factors. 

How to Preserve Your Precious Vintages the Proper Way

storing vintages in Texas wine cellar

Wine Needs a Stable Environment to Age Properly

Vintage wine is created from grapes that are grown in a specific year. Hence, if you read a label such as Cabernet Sauvignon 2000, this tells you that the grapes used in making that wine were harvested in the year 2000.

Each harvest of grapes has specific characteristics to them. There are nuances in color, nose, body, and palate with each harvest year. So it follows that older wines are not necessarily better than the younger ones. It all depends on the year of harvest. This is why wine collectors fill their wine racks with bottles from a good vintage year.

For a wine to have the right to have the year and grape-growing region placed on its label, it must have at least 95 % of its grapes come from that harvest year. However, if the wine doesn’t have a specified region where the grapes were grown, the percentage will dip to 85%.

Some wine makers release vintages when the conditions in their vineyards are so good that the grapes grown are exceptional, and as such these wine bottles are available only in limited supply.

So what does it mean for Texas wine collectors to have vintage wines in their collection? Knowing the value of these rare vintage wines, it’s just crucial that this type of wine be stored properly.

Ideal Conditions for Proper Maturation of Wine

refrigerated wine cellar Texas

Climate-Controlled Texas Custom Wine Cellar

Wine storage requires a delicate balance in temperature and humidity so that wine can develop its complex flavors and aromas before it is drunk. This usually requires a climate-controlled environment in your wine cellar, especially if you live in a warmer climate, such as Texas.

Fluctuations of more than 2 degrees Fahrenheit beyond the ideal temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit could affect your wine’s quality.

Failure to achieve the optimum temperature can cause wine oxidation. Oxidized wines have unpleasant taste and odor. Temperature stability can only be achieved by installing a commercial grade wine cellar cooling system.

This equipment allows you to maintain constant temperature and humidity in your wine cellar to achieve proper maturation of your favorite vintages.

Whether your Texas wine cellar is located in a basement, garage, closet, or in any area in your home, it is vital to ensure that the correct cooling equipment is installed in it. You don’t want your precious wines to be ruined.

Trusted Manufacturers of Wine Cooling Systems

US Cellar Systems wine cooling unit Texas

Wine Cooling System by US Cellar Systems

With several brands of wine refrigeration systems available in the market today, it is best to consult with a wine cooling expert like Wine Cellar Specialists. They offer cooling units manufactured by Wine Guardian, US Cellar Systems, CellarPro, and WhisperKOOL.

The three types of cooling systems are self-contained, ducted self-contained, and split. Your chosen builder should be able to determine the most ideal refrigeration unit based on your functional, aesthetic, and financial requirements.

Why Stock Vintage Wines in Your Texas Wine Cellar?

Texas wine cellars stocked with vintage wine generally hold more value in their wine storage racks. If you buy a vintage wine, it is as if you possess a rich and unique piece of history.

It represents the highest level of winemaking and the bottle can only increase in value as years pass. Because of vintage wine’s superior quality, it is like owning a piece of art. What’s more is that these are actually art pieces that you can literally savor. You can experience the finest wines from the best harvest years by collecting them in your wine cellar.

Even if you’re living in Texas and famous wine-making regions are thousands of miles away, it’s as if you have the best wine caves of France right in your own wine cellar.

Keep Your Wine Collection Safe. Seek the Help of a Wine Storage Expert.

Wine Cellar Master Builder in Dallas, San Antonio, and Chicago

Wine Cellar Specialists Builds Wine Cellars in Dallas, San Antonio, and Chicago

Whatever your storage needs, budget, or style, it is important to ensure that your wine collection is safe. Wine Cellar Specialists build wine cellars in Dallas, San Antonio, and Chicago.

Visit their gallery of refrigerated wine cellars at https://www.winecellarspec.com/wine-cellars/. Contact them now at 866-646-7089 or request a FREE 3D design by clicking here.

3D Drawings for Wine Cellar Projects

Master Wine Cellar Builders – Designing and Building Your Dream Wine Cellar

Building a Wine Cellar

Building a Wine Cellar - Wine Cellar SPecialists' Projects

                 Building a Wine Cellar – Wine Cellar SPecialists’ Projects

Designing and building a wine cellar is a meticulous process; one that requires collaboration between master wine cellar builders and their clients.  This collaborative effort ensures that the internal structure of the custom wine room not only maintains a secure and conducive environment for storing and aging wines, but also accurately conveys the client’s artistic taste and unique character.

Master wine cellar builders are experts in building a wine cellar for the home, as well as in commercial and hospitality sectors.  They work with their clients throughout every phase of the wine cellar project, from the initial design stage to actual installation.  They also provide their clients with a free 3D design package, along with a complete quote.

Build Your Own Wine Cellar

3D Drawings for Wine Cellar Projects

                                              3D Drawings for Wine Cellar Projects

A 3D drawing comes in handy when you build your own wine cellar, because it allows you to preview the project and make design revisions before construction takes place.

Professional wine cellar designers and builders are committed to building a wine cellar space that is both functional and aesthetical pleasing.  Let’s take a look at some of their recently completed climate controlled custom residential wine cellar projects.

Seattle Washington Project

This elegant 1,367 bottle capacity custom wine cellar in Seattle, Washington, is designed with a French rustic appearance and elaborate hand carved detailing on the doors, panels, and molding.  The wine room features a sitting area (which serves as an entertainment hub and wine tasting room) that is completely separate from the refrigerated wine storage space.

Seattle Washington Wine Cellar Project - A Stunning View

                                    Seattle Washington Wine Cellar Project – A Stunning View

Custom wine rack styles include: single bottle storage racks that fit most standard size wine bottles, label forward displays that facilitate horizontal placement of wine bottles and provide clear visibility of wine labels, and X-bin racking for bulk storage.  To allow for the seamless, wall to wall transition of wine storage racks, curved racking was installed around the corners.

As seen when you come through the wine cellar door, the back includes a beautiful lighted mural arch tabletop, flanked by glass cabinet doors with a cathedral design.  To enhance the visual appeal of the racking wall, master wine cellar builders added two vertical window display shelves that feature leaf designed columns with detailed crown molding.

Below the tabletop counter are 27’ double deep cabinets, with handcrafted grape vine designs that provide a customized appearance of the racking display.  All of the wine racking was constructed in Mahogany wood.  Specialized LED-based spot lighting was used as the main light source.  This lighting system helps accentuate the intricate hand carved design of this beautiful wine room.

Naperville Chicago Illinois Project

For this custom wine cellar Naperville Illinois project, a small closet was converted into a climate controlled wine room that has a total storage capacity of 497 wine bottles.  To maximize the storage space, a combination of single bottle storage racks with a high reveal display row was installed.  Display racks with high reveal are ideal for showcasing your favorite wine collectibles.

This residential wine room has glass windows and door that show off the unfinished Premium redwood wine racks.  Waterfall wine racks were installed on both sides of the storage space, for a tasteful display of wine bottles through large front windows.  The back wall features a tabletop with a glass rack, made from the same wood variety as the wine racking.

Naperville Custom Wine Cellar Project

                                   Naperville Custom Wine Cellar Project

There are crucial things to consider when deciding to build your own wine cellar, such as the location and size of your wine storage space, the number of wine bottles you intend to collect, amount of insulation, the number of wine cellar furniture, and budget.

Your wine cellar space must provide the best possible environment for your wine collectibles.  Hence, it is always recommended that you consult with professional wine cellar designers and builders when you finally decide to build your own wine cellar.  This will ensure that your custom wine room has an environment that is not only ideal for aging, but also for hosting tasting parties.

Visit Wine Cellar Spec to see more wine cellar projects they have completed.

Facts About Wines Stored in Your Chicago Wine Cellar

Wine seems as old as time, but I have only recently become fascinated by it. It was not something that I planned, but let’s just say that I stumbled upon it and started to get curious. As with other things that took my fancy, I read up on wine and found many interesting facts that fueled my fascination and enthusiasm leaving me awed and amazed.

Wines are not just bottles filled with intoxicating liquid resting in one’s Chicago custom wine cellar. There is more to wine than what we usually see. Here are some interesting facts about wine:

1. Dionysius, a Greek god, is said to be the god of wine, agriculture, and fertility of nature. He is also Bacchus in Roman mythology.

2. Red wines are fermented with the skin of the grapes which gives the liquid its red hue. White wines are made from grapes without their skins.

3. Foot treading of grapes is still done to produce small amounts of port wine.

4. Wine is said to have medicinal value. It helps in the control of high blood pressure if a glass is taken daily. However, there is an increased incidence of developing certain forms of cancer.

5. Oak barrels are used to store wine. One oak barrel can last for years.

6. Most wines produced today are ready to drink and do not require aging. Very few (and expensive) wines are aged these days and reserved for special occasions. Those wine which are aged are stored in wine cellars or wine cabinets equipped with modern cooling systems.

7. Wines in weddings symbolize fertility and life of plenty. These are the basic wishes people have for the newlyweds.

8.The word “aroma” is used to describe the scent of a young wine. “Bouquet” is used to describe the scent of a mature or aged wine.

9. Wine that tastes watery is said to be diluted. It is believed that the grapes used for watery wine were harvested during the rainy season.

10. A wineglass is held by the stem to prevent the palm from warming the liquid in the glass.

11. There is nothing one can gather from smelling the cork. The cork is examined after opening the wine to check for molds or dryness of the cork. This will indicate if the wine was stored properly in the wine cellar, hence, maintaining the quality and superior taste.

12. In the old times, the host of any gathering takes the first sip before serving the wine to guests to check if the wine is poisoned.

13. The combination of type of soil, climate, sunlight, and slope affects the grapes grown in a particular region. These are the factors that make each grape varietal unique.

14. Red wines are served with red meat while white wines are paired with white meat and fish. Sweet wines are served with dessert.

15. Climate change is slowly affecting the wine industry in the current popular wine regions.

16. A wine cellar door both refers to the entry of a wine cellar and a winery’s tasting room.

17. Wine tasting is a tourist attraction in itself in most wine regions, not only for enthusiasts but also for those who are curious and willing to learn something new.

These are just few of the interesting wine facts I have come across as I read about my new favorite topic these days. I can see that there are more interesting facts that will catch my attention and fascinate me more. I may even start filling up a wine rack or a wine cabinet to start my own collection.

The Best Wine Storage Solution for You – Contact a Wine Cellar Builder

Are you considering your own custom wine cellar? Whether you are planning to have a residential or commercial wine cellar,  Wine Cellar Specialists will help you provide the best wine storage solution for your collection according to your budget and requirements. Contact them now at 866-646-7089 or click here to request for a specialist to contact you.

Wine Cellar Specialists Dallas is Awarded Best of Houzz 2013

Wine Cellar Specialists Dallas Texas is the recent winner of Houzz’s 2013 “Best of Remodeling” Customer Satisfaction award.  The Best of Houzz 2013 award is based on reviews and ratings conducted by Houzz’s more than 11 million monthly users.

>>See more about Wine Cellar Specialists’ designs and awards on Houzz HERE

Houzz is the leading online authority in home remodeling and design.  Its website features an extensive database in residential design that can provide information, inspiration, and support to homeowners and home builders alike.  It is an online community for architects, designers, contractors, and home improvement professionals.

The Best of Houzz 2013 award recognizes professionals who come up with unique and inspiring home designs, provide excellent customer service, and timely delivery of high-quality results.

Custom Wine Cellar Specialists Dallas is Awarded Best of Houzz 2013

There are two categories to Houzz’s Best of Houzz awards: Customer Satisfaction and Design.  The winners for the Customer Satisfaction category are rated by homeowners, based on their working experience with remodelers and designers.  The works of Design awardees were favored by millions of Houzz users and were added to their personal ideabooks via the Houzz website or mobile apps.

The Houzz platform showcases different works of various top-notch professionals like Wine Cellar Specialists Dallas in 360-degree imaging.  These visuals give homeowners an opportunity to evaluate and determine which home improvement professionals best meet their design objectives.  The platform also allows homeowners to interact directly with design professionals.

Best of Houzz 2013 is considered as the benchmark for exceptional renovation and interior decoration of residential structures.  Professional images found on personal ideabooks of Houzzers (or Houzz users) serve as strong artistic influences and set a creative trend in the field of remodeling and design around the world.

A closer inspection of Houzz ideabooks will reveal the latest thing in residential decorating:  a garage being converted into a home office or play space; open showers with plenty of natural light and glass doors; outdoor spaces that are equipped with fireplaces and firepits; installing intricate wall treatments on entryways; and laundry rooms that feature stained glass and bold wallpapers to give the space a homey feel.

Click here to view more photos!

Wine Cellar Specialists Residential Wine Cellars

Wine Cellar Specialists Dallas is owned and founded by Robert Stockberger.  The company specializes in wine cellar design and wine cellar construction for residential and commercial properties.  Wine Cellar Specialists Dallas provides design and consultation services, construction of custom wine racks, and installation of climate control wine cellar refrigeration, flooring, and cellar doors.

The company has years of experience in the custom wine cellars industry.  Wine Cellar Specialists Dallas is committed to providing exceptional service and results to their clients.  As a testament to their professional diligence, they have reaped awards and accolades over the years for their exquisite wine cellar design.  Winning the Best of Houzz 2013 award is another added achievement under their belt.

Houzz was founded in 2009.  It is an online photo database of more than one million professional images that aims to guide homeowners in building, renovating, and decorating their properties.  They released an iPhone/iPad app as well as an Android version of the software.  To date, Houzz has a list of 1.5 million residential remodeling professionals that can help transform dreams into reality which makes Wine Cellar Specialists one in 1.5 million!

Wine Cellar Doors

Vital Elements Involved in Constructing Custom Wine Cellars

Although there are various ways of storing your wine collection, wine cellars are considered the best storage solution.  The controlled, secure environment of a wine cellar protects wines from the negative influences of light, temperature, and humidity.  Storing wines under the right conditions is vital to preserving their taste and flavor over time.

In order for a wine cellar to achieve its maximum potential, there are several elements that need to be considered prior to its actual construction.  The first is to determine the size and location of the wine cellar.  The size of your wine cellar depends on its intended purpose.  Will, it is solely used for wine storage or will it also serve as a venue for wine tasting parties?

Home Wine Cellars Memphis TN

Home Wine Cellars Memphis TN

Finding the perfect location for your wine cellar is also essential as this will help you decide which type of wine cellar refrigeration unit to install.  Most home wine cellars are constructed above ground; hence, they require efficient insulation and vapor barriers to maintain the required climate conditions.

The next element to consider is the storage capacity of your wine cellar.  Consider the number of wine bottles you currently have in your inventory and how many bottles you intend to add in the future.  A ballpark estimate of your wine collection will also help you determine the type of racking system to install.

Wine racks are an important aspect of cellaring wines.  Racking systems are designed to store wine bottles at an angle that keeps the cork in constant contact with the wine.  Storage racks are available in different sizes and styles that can suit various needs and requirements.

Although most wine racks come in pre-fabricated designs for easy installation, there is also an option to have them custom built.  Custom wine racks are specifically built to fit your wine cellar, taking into account the architectural structure and constraints of your storage space.  Custom racking systems may be an expensive storage solution, but will nevertheless provide a unique flair to your wine cellar.

Wine Cellar Doors

Wine Cellar Doors

Another element to consider is the kind of door for your wine cellar.  Since cellar doors serve as the entryway to your wine enclave, it should be functional and aesthetically pleasing at the same time.  Wine cellar doors are made out of wood, glass, and wrought iron.  These doors need to have an airtight seal to help keep the correct level of temperature and humidity inside the wine cellar.

Choosing the proper flooring material for your wine cellar is equally important.  The flooring surface must be strong and durable to withstand the combined weight of the racking systems and cabinetry.  Wood, cork, tile, stone, and recycled wine barrels are common materials used in wine cellar flooring.

The last element to consider is the lighting system.  Lighting elements allow you to highlight and feature your favorite wine labels.  LED-based lighting solutions are most appropriate for wine cellar use since they emit less heat compared to regular light bulbs.

There are benefits to installing dimmer switches and light timers in your wine cellar.  Dimmer switches allow you to control the level of brightness in your wine storage room.  Light timers are energy savers and they prevent continuous light exposure.

Consult a professional wine cellar expert when venturing into a wine cellar project.  Custom Wine Cellars Specialists have the expertise and knowledge in designing, constructing, and installing wine cellars.  They will work closely with clients throughout the entire process – from conceptualization to construction.

Need an expert in Wine Cellar Design?

Unoaked Chardonnay – the Naked Wine in Your Home Wine Cellar

Residential Wine Cellar Texas

Unoaked wines are widely produced by many winemakers and are present in almost every residential wine cellar.

Many people choose to collect wines because for them, wine is already a part of their lives and it makes any wine drinking experience more enjoyable. Increased knowledge of wines is important, whether you are just starting a wine collection or you already have a large number of wines stored in your residential wine cellar.

One of the most interesting topics in the wine world is about unoaked wines. Many people might be wondering what unoaked wines are and their characteristics. This article will discuss unoaked wines, particularly Chardonnay.

Traditionally, wines are allowed to ferment in wine oak barrels, which create the flavors and bouquet of the finished wine. Oak barrels help balance the tannins in wine, enhance the texture and add a little spice and some sweet vanillin characters to the wine.

Stainless Steel Wine Barrels

Unoaked Wines are Produced Using Stainless Steel Barrels

The wine making process has evolved so much as time has gone by. Some winemakers even deviated from tradition to discover “naked” wines.

“Naked wine” is a term for unoaked wine, or wine that has never been aged inside an oak barrel. Production of unoaked wines involves a cost effective process using a stainless barrel instead of the more traditional oak barrel. Steel aging brings out the true flavor, without the influence of oak barrels.

In unoaked wines, the natural flavors of grapes and elements of the soil from which they are grown are emphasized. Unoaked wine is perfect as a table or dessert wine because of its light flavor. It is perfect for people who cannot drink wine with high tannin content.

If wine is unoaked, the tannin level is lowered, making the wine bearable to drink. Many consumers enjoy a lighter and fruitier wine without the influence of the oak barrels, which is why unoaked wines are widely produced by many winemakers and are present in almost every wine cellar.

We cannot deny that unoaked wines are gaining popularity in the US. One of the most popular non-oaked wines in the US, especially in California, is the unoaked Chardonnay, which was originally popularized by Chablis.

Chardonnay Wines

One of the most popular naked wines in the US is unoaked Chardonnay.

Since Chardonnay is a neutral grape and can deliver various flavors and aromas, many winemakers like to experiment in creating a different taste of the wine after fermentation. Chardonnays which are fermented and aged in oak barrels taste like butter or caramel and have scents of vanilla, spice or wood. They also deliver a creamy texture.

When Chardonnay is fermented and aged in steel wine barrels, it is unoaked or un-wooded. Unoaked Chardonnay has light and delicate flavors, making it more versatile in food pairing compared to oaked Chardonnay.

The true characteristics and crisp fruit flavor of wine will emerge if it is not fermented or aged in oak barrels, which is why some winemakers choose not to oak wines. There’s nothing better than ending a stressful day with a glass of unoaked Chardonnay from your home wine cellar.

Types of Wine Cork & Preserving Wine in a Wine Cellar

Residential custom wine cellars are a place for you as an avid wine collector, to display your wine collection as well as to store and age your wines over time.  As your wine collection grows your wine cellar is likely to have a mix of wines from different regions, wines that you will want to age over the longer term and some that will be intended to be consumed over a much shorter period.

As part of the management of your wine cellar there are many factors that can influence the preservation and aging of wine.  In this article we are going to discuss the role different types of cork can play in this process.

Cork is used in a variety of products, the most common of which being the wine cork. It is considered the most suitable material for bottle stoppers on wine bottles because of its structure and component materials. The mechanical and physical properties that make cork the most preferred wine bottle closure include resiliency, low density, impermeability, flexibility, temperature and age stability, adherence and biodegradability.

Wine cork is essential to the graceful aging of wines in your wine cellar. It prevents oxygen from spoiling the wine in subsequent storage.

In order for cork to serve its purpose in wine storage, wines should be positioned in wine racks the right way. It is also essential to use the ideal wine cellar cooling units to ensure that the right humidity level in the wine cellar is maintained. This will prevent the cork from drying out and shrinking, thus reducing the possibility of oxidation, which causes wine spoilage.

There are different types of wine corks used by winemakers. The most well-known are the natural wine corks. These wine corks are derived from the best quality cork oak periderm or bark and are washed, carefully inspected for flaws, sterilized and printed.

natural wine corks

Natural Wine Corks are Perfect for Long-Term Wine Storage in Your Home Wine Room

Natural wine corks enable wine to mature slowly because they are able to seal it for a considerable length of time. They are most suitable for bold red wines intended for long term storage.

Corks which are popular for their affordability are agglomerated wine corks. They are low cost because they are made from clean natural cork grains. These grains are formed into dense corks by mixing them with food grade glue. They assure good sealing for wines intended to be stored from 12-18 months.

 

Agglomerated Wine Corks

Agglomerated Wine Corks are Ideal for Short-Term Wine Storage (12-18 months)

Another type of wine cork that fits ice wine bottles with a narrow neck is the ice wine natural cork. These corks are smaller than natural wine corks and are specifically sized to withstand high sugar content.

Pore-filled natural wine corks are called colmated wine corks. Their pores, or, lenticels, are preserved carefully with cork dust or cork grains. These grains are gathered and attached to the lenticels of colmated cork stoppers by using rubber glues (FDA authorized) or natural resin glues.

Colmated Wine Corks

Colmated Wine Corks are Pore-filled Natural Wine Corks

Synthetic wine corks are considered to provide a good seal to wines since they don’t harbor bacteria, which is why some wineries prefer to use this type of cork. The advantage of synthetic wine corks is their availability to be manufactured in different colors, thus allowing flexibility in packaging.

Synthetic Wine corks

Synthetic Wine Corks can be Manufactured in Different Colors

Double disc corks, also known as 1+1 corks or twin pop corks, are a combination of natural corks and agglomerated corks. The main advantage of this type of cork is the consistency in quality, density, price and function which make double disc corks widely used in bottling commercial wines.

Double Disc Wine Corks

Double Disc Wine Corks are a Combination of Natural Corks and Agglomerated Corks.

When selecting wine for long term preservation and aging of your wines in your custom wine cellar, take into account the type of cork that was used to seal the wine and when making this decision.  Wines that have been sealed with low-end porous corks are likely to be less suitable for long term storage.

Food – Friendly Riesling – a Must-Have in Your Wine Cellar

With several types of wine available, pairing wine with food needs careful attention in order to bring out the best in each combination. There are no rules when pairing wines with food, only suggestions. Always keep in mind that the best match is determined by your personal preference. Food can either contradict or complement wines. In your quest to pair wine with food, you must consider several factors for both wine and food.

For some wines, finding the perfect food match can be difficult. However, there are wines that are especially food-friendly, such as Riesling. This wine is often found in the wine cellars of those who want to find ease in choosing the right wine and food pair during dinner parties.

Riesling wines are produced from Riesling grapes, which originate in the Rhine region of Germany. Riesling is characterized by flowery, fruity and fragrant aromas. On the palate, Riesling wines highlight the pear, citrus, apple and peach flavors. They also exhibit mineral flavors, which they tend to get from their native soils.

Any food pairing can be successful if the wine’s intensity, acidity, alcohol, and degree of sweetness are taken into consideration. Rieslings are known for their out-going character or versatility when it comes to food pairing. Rieslings are sweet, crisp, light-bodied and have a balance of sugar and acidity, as well as relatively low alcohol content.

The high acidity in Riesling wines increases saliva production in the mouth, causing you to want to eat more. German Rieslings that have high acidity go well with saucy dishes and fatty foods. This is why they can be paired with an array of foods such as appetizers, pork, poultry, and mild fish. Riesling is also prefect for contrasting dishes such as sweet and spicy. Dry Riesling wine matches well with chicken and seafood, while sweet varieties go well with desserts.

In Germany, off-dry Rieslings are slightly sweet (classified as Spatlese or Kabinett). They are best paired with salty foods, spicy dishes and sweeter vegetables like corn, sweet potatoes, turnips, and yams. Never match red meat with dry or off-dry Riesling, since its flavors can overpower that of the Riesling.

During light summer months, many of us love to have outdoor activities or have picnics with family and friends. We often grill fish and other seafood, which are best served with Riesling.

For wine cellar owners, make sure that you include Rieslings in your collection so that you can serve your guests with a wide range of food and grab a versatile wine.

You can also try pairing Riesling with other foods. Remember that your own palate will still be the biggest factor in a successful matching of wine and food. What matters most is that the pairing should enhance your wine drinking experience.

Sparkling Wine

Sparkling Wine – a Bubbly Wine in Your Wine Cellar

In the production of sparkling wine in every major wine-producing country in the world, the most important grape varieties used are Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier. Different methods are also used by different winemakers depending on their preference and the laws of their region. Sparkling wines are mostly pink, white or red.   Sparkling wines’ sweetness varies from bottle to bottle and can be categorized as brut, extra brut, extra dry, sec and demi-sec.

It can be paired with a variety of foods including seafood, poultry and some desserts such as fruit salad, tiramisu, and chocolate mousse. It appears fizzy because of the significant levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in it.

The most popular type of sparkling wine is Champagne which is only produced in the Champagne region of France. The first Champagne was made in the 17th century. It is called spumante in Italy, Sekt in Germany and Austria, cap Classique in South Africa and cava in Spain.

So what makes sparkling wine different from other table wines? It is the bubbles and the process used to make it bubbly. Many people love to drink sparkling wine, but only a few know the mystery behind its bubbles.

Sparkling Wine

Bubbly Sparkling Wine

In the first stage of making sparkling wine, base or still wine (no bubbles) is produced and blended until the desired taste and aroma have been created. During the second fermentation process in sparkling wine production, the bubbles are generated in either a specially designed tank or in the bottle.

The winemaker adds a small amount of sugar and yeast to the blended base wine, which is converted to carbon dioxide trapping millions of bubbles in a very small space. The carbon dioxide is released in the liquid to produce a “sparkle.”

If CO2 is released too fast, the flavor of the sparkling wine fades quickly. In order to preserve the carbon dioxide in the wine, you should not pour the liquid straight into the center of the wine glass. Instead, you should pour it down the side of a glass which is ideally at an angle of 45 degrees.

Storing sparkling wines requires extra care since they are more sensitive to light than other table wines. They should be stored in a wine cellar, wine refrigerator or any location where the temperature is around 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

This will prevent overly aggressive bubbles. Sparkling wines must be placed on the lowest shelf of the wine racks because they are susceptible to heat and light. Since heat rises, wines requiring the lowest temperature should sit at the lowest temperature. Unlike regular bottles of wine, they can be stored upright so that the carbon dioxide can form a ring at the neck of the bottle, thus protecting the wine from unwanted air.

Since sparkling wines don’t improve with age, they should be consumed within 1 year of purchase. When you are planning a celebration with your family and friends, keep the sparkling wine in a fridge for a day or two.

The serving temperature affects the rate at which bubbles are released. Sparkling wines should be served chilled, with the temperature between 42-52°F to steadily release bubbles.

When creating this special wine, winemakers have different preferences in sparkling wine styles. Some want a more delicate and less flavorful style while others prefer the strong flavors of oak, aged wine or yeast. The 3 key production methods used in the secondary fermentation are a traditional method, transfer method, and Charmat Method.

Next time you have a celebration, you will feel proud because you know why the sparkling wine in your glass is bubbly. Enjoy every tingly bubble in it!

Non-Grape-Based Wines a Good Addition to Custom Wine Cellars?

Besides grapes, there are many other fruits that can be made into surprisingly delicious wines. Wine collectors, often with whole room residential custom wine cellars dedicated to their collections are finding these can make a great addition to the diversity of their collections.

Non-Grape-Based Wines

Non-Grape-Based Wines

Just about every country in the world has at least one winery that produces alternative fruit wines. There are locations all around the world, such as Massachusetts in the USA, where grapes can’t grow due to their climate.

Crops typically used in making fruit wines include apples, plums, raspberries, cherries, peaches, blackberries, pineapples, pears, and even watermelons. Should you attempt to make these types of wines yourself it’s important to make sure you pick overripe fruits but avoid those with too many bruises.

Fruit wines can be made from any plant matter capable of being fermented. In order to achieve the desired taste and aroma, some of these products need honey or sugar to be added to them. Fruit winemaking involves many of the same techniques used in making grape wines. When made commercially there is a machine that gets rid of the stalks and washes off the bugs etc. and in some wineries, the juice is separated from the skins through a crusher.

The fruit juice is then put into a fermenting container. Yeast can be found naturally in some fruits (such as grapes) and can also be produced through laboratory processes on other fruits. Yeast consumes the available sugar in juice and converts that sugar into 50% alcohol. The process called Chaptalization helps increase the alcohol content of the finished wine.

The fermentation process then begins. Most winemakers leave the pulp in the juice for the first 7 days to add character and deepen the wine’s color.

In the process of making fruit wines, there are necessary adjustments that must be made to the acidity of the fruit juice, the amount of fruit used per gallon, and the amount of available sugar. Sometimes, tannin or acid must be added to balance the taste, thus producing great tasting fruit wines at the standard you expect for your wine cellar.

The wine-making hydrometer is a device that not only helps determine the amount of sugar in your juice but the amount of sugar needed to provide the sweetness you want in your wine and the amount of alcohol that sugar can produce as well.

Typically non-grape-based wines cannot be stored for a very long time. Some need to be consumed within 12 months of their products because they lack the natural yeast present in grapes. This potentially limited aging and life span should be taken into account when racking in your wine room. In order to promote further fermentation, phosphorus, nitrogen or potassium must be added.

An example of fruit wine is plum wine, which is famous in Korea and Japan. Other popular fruit wines include pineapple wine, cherry wine, banana wine, raspberry wine, and apple wine.

Fruit wines are perfect for any occasion, an excellent addition to your wine rooms‘ selection and can provide unique flavors and aromas. You can even make fruit wines at home by following simple winemaking processes.

Quality Wines for Your Wine Cellar with the Right Wine Press

In winemaking, the juice must be extracted from the grapes and you must have the skill, time and fine blend of fruits to make great tasting wines. Pressing is one of the processes involved in winemaking, which is the act of applying pressure to grapes or other fruits to separate juice or wine from them and their skins.

Most wineries use a device called the winepress to increase their production per ton. The amount of juice produced from pressing makes up about 30% of the total juice volume from grapes. Before the arrival of modern winemaking, winemakers pressed grapes in a large basin using their feet. Take a look below at the different styles of wine presses which help in the production of high-quality wines (especially those that deserve to be stored in a functional custom wine cellar).

Basket Press 

The first type of wine press was the basket style press which is one of the oldest means of extracting grape juice. Most basket presses are made of wood and are manually operated. The operator of a basket press throws batches of grapes into the basket (or a cylinder of wooden slats), positions the top plate in its proper place and slowly lowers it down until the juice flows from the wooden slats. With enough pressure, the grapes are crushed and the grape juice is extracted from them leaving the skins, stems, seeds, and pulp of the fruit also known as pomace.

The main advantage of the basket press is its ability to reduce the filtering needed for the finished product and to lessen the bitterness caused by seeds and stems. Another benefit of this style of wine press is its affordability.

Bladder Press 

The bladder press makes use of household water pressure through a garden hose to expand a bladder located in the center of the press.  It has a large cylinder closed at each end, where the fruits are loaded into. As the bladder expands, it pushes and presses the grapes against the sides.

Bladder presses are popular for the high-quality wines they can produce. They are also known to be gentler to the grapes compared to basket presses. By using a bladder press, the astringency is reduced because it doesn’t crack the seeds. Other advantages of bladder presses include less physical effort required to operate, they can be moved around easily because of its lightweight and they are easy to sanitize.

Horizontal Screw Press 

The principle used in a horizontal screw press is the same as that of the basket press. Grapes are squeezed not by bringing down a plate from above but by bringing down plates from either side of a closed cylinder. It can handle far more grapes compared to the basket press and bladder press. Only medium pressure is required in using this device.

Other styles of wine presses that provide lots of benefits to winemakers include the continuous screw press, vertical screw press, and pneumatic press. Whichever press you want to use in winemaking, make sure that the right amount of pressure is used to produce high-quality wines for your wine cellar.

Start Your Own Wine Collection – We are Here to Help

Wine collecting is an interest that is slowly gaining popularity among wine consumers of different social classes. There are two reasons why most people venture into acquiring their own vintages: one is for-profit as they can eventually sell their collection down the line, and second is a passion for great tasting wines wherein having their own collection allows them to personally enjoy a nice bottle or share it with friends at any given time.

Custom Wine Cellar – Perfect for Storage of your Wine Collection

Whatever your purpose is, Wine Cellar SPecialists is here to help you along the way. Here are some tips we’ve gathered for you:

Storing a few bottles is a great way to kick off your collection as you can gradually increase the number of your vintages in the long run. Proper wine storage is of great importance to your wine collection as this can spell the difference between preserving the quality of your vintages and spoilage.

When deciding where to store your wine collection, you should take into account the three factors that can greatly influence the condition of your wines: light, temperature, and humidity.

Bright lights can interfere with the chemical compounds in wines which can alter its quality and taste; hence it is essential to store them in places where they are left untouched by the damaging effects of rays of light.

Temperature and humidity levels should be maintained at 50-55°F and within 60-75% respectively. In addition, keeping your wine in areas free of vibratory motion is a must since the slightest motion can have adverse effects on your wine. Storing your wine collection in an ideal environment ensures that your wine retains its excellent quality and at the same time keeps its label in pristine condition.

There are several options available for storing your wine collection. Converting your basement or garage into a wine cellar is one of them, and by installing a wine cellar cooling system in the room guarantees that the right temperature and humidity levels are maintained at all times.

If building a wine cellar in your home is not within your budget, then you can invest in a good quality wine cooler. Wine coolers have ample space to store quite a few wine bottles and it can mimic the ideal conditions required for proper wine storage.

Purchasing wine racks is another option. Wine racks are constructed out of wood, metal, or steel. They also come in a myriad of impressive designs that can certainly complement any kitchen or room in your household.

Curved Corner Standard Wine Rack

Curved Corner Standard Wine Rack – Elegant Wine Storage Furniture for your Wines

If you want a professional to look after your wine collection, then professional refrigeration is the best choice for you. A wine storage locker can be leased for your convenience and a wine expert is in charge of maintaining your wine bottles, for a price, of course.

The safety of your wine collection should also be taken into account. Keep in mind that the value of your wine increases as it ages, therefore it is imperative to take the necessary precautions for the safekeeping of your vintages. Having your bottles of wine insured is one way of doing that.

Should you decide to expand your wine collection, there are wine retailers and vineyards that often grant buyers a reduced price when acquiring wines in bulk. However, it is recommended that you try one bottle first or, better yet, check out wine reviews online before you make a big purchase.

Furthermore, visiting different vineyards and signing up for their mailing list will avail you of discounts in the future.

Why “Seal” my wine cellar? – Custom Wine Cellars Texas

Why do I need to “Seal” my wine cellar?

Only this week I was confronted by a builder in Texas who was showing me the room that he was turning into a custom wine cellar for his customer.

He mentioned he knew about adding the correct vapor barrier and insulation. Then, in the next breath, he said “and I am leaving ½” open below the door so that the room gets good air circulation!”

 Air circulation coming from the next room in your home into your wine cellar is exactly what you do NOT want.

Your wine cellar must be sealed like a package. See How to Build Your Wine Cellar. The reason for the vapor barrier is to ensure that the temperature and humidity inside the room, controlled by your wine cellar cooling units, is kept at a lower temperature and higher humidity than in the rest of your home.

To age and preserve wine properly you need to maintain a very stable temperature of 55 to 60 degrees and 50 to 70 percent humidity inside your wine cellar. Leaving a gap under the door allows the cold air to escape and warm air to enter the room, creating difficulty maintaining the correct temperature and humidity. All air going into our coming out of the room should be going through the wine cellar climate control system you have chosen.

Yes, it is possible to maintain the room’s temperature and humidity with this gap. However, you will need a larger wine cellar cooling unit and your unit will run longer, causing an increase in expense to the homeowner’s electric bill.

The gap under the door is the most often cause of cooling loss in a wine cellar!

An easy remedy is to install an exterior door with the same weather stripping you would use if the door were to the outside. Another remedy is to install a door with an automatic door bottom. The doors offered by the award-winning Wine Cellar Specialists have the option of the wood threshold or the automatic door bottom at no additional charge. This is highly recommended.

Wine Cellar Design Basics – Remember:
1. Seal any gaps.
2. A vapor barrier is absolutely necessary.
3. The more insulation, the better.

Want to learn more? See some of our completed wine cellar builders custom wine cellars installed in Texas. Or ready to get started? Simply fill in this wine cellar design request and we will create a design for you FREE of charge and without obligation! Kick-off your wine cellar conversion today!

Vintage View “Evolution Series” Contemporary Wine Racks

…for Contemporary Wine Displays

Azure-140DSCN1201-300x225 The new ‘Evolution Series‘ wine racks from Vintage View have arrived.  These new racks can be custom made to almost any width and or height. For example, you could have them fit one, two, three or four bottles wide and reach 7 or 8 ft. in height…..up to 10 ft

The ends of these Wine Racks can be made in steel with a powder-coated finish (in nearly any color) or chrome-plated if under 8’ high.  They can also be made of acrylic in clear, frosted, or colored.  The tubes or rails the bottles rest on are chrome plated steel.  These wine racks are potentially ideal for Wine Stores, Residential Custom Wine Cellars, Commercial Wine Displays and indeed anyone wanting to create a wine cellar that has a very contemporary look.

These racks are now available in custom sizes.

Once these wine racks are formally launched they will come in standard sizes, right not though we can take orders for pretty much any size. For details or to get a price quote for your custom Evolution Series wine racks call 1-866-646-7089

Vintage View “Evolution Series” Wine Racks – Custom Wine Cellars – Wine Displays

Evolution Series Wine Racks

Click the link to download the spec sheet.

Evolution 4 Spec Sheet

Evolution 6 Spec Sheet

Evolution 8 Spec Sheet

 

New Custom Colors for Evolution Series

 

Wine Industry Businesses – Custom Wine Cellars Related – About

As custom wine cellar design and construction specialists, we frequently come across businesses that offer services that we believe are likely to be of particular interest to our clients and customers who have had built or have an interest in custom wine cellars, commercial wine racks, wine displays, and wine generally. If fact we have often been asked to provide a list or a recommendation. To that end, we have created a Custom Wine Cellars Related Business Listings page.

Learn more about:

Small Business Accountants Fort Collins

Steven J Wick & Associates PC

2809 E. Harmony Rd. Suite 120
Fort Collins, CO 80528
(970) 224-3366

Please note – Custom Wine Cellars Related Business Listing Disclaimer

The businesses listed at the link above are a mix of companies that we like, do business with ourselves, have been recommended to us or are just simply aware of. Businesses listed on our “Custom Wine Cellars Related Business Listings” page should not be construed as a personal or business recommendation. They are simply there for your convenience and as a way for us to share information with you.

We may or may not have commercial relationships with these companies. We may or may not receive affiliate commissions as a result of your following the links and ultimately purchasing a product or services from them. We can say that if there is an affiliate relationship, it will in no way affect the pricing you receive from that company.

Our criteria for listing a business is that in our opinion we believe the business is relevant to the wine industry and of potential interest to wine lovers, collectors, and owners of wine-related businesses.

If you are interested in having your business listed, simply email your request to WineCellarBuilders@CustomWineCellarsLosAngeles.com and put “Wine Cellar Specialists – Wine Industry Business Listings” in the title, don’t forget to include a link to your website! We reserve the right to accept or refuse a listing at our discretion.

Grotto Custom Wine Cellars – Grotto Wine Racks

Need products that match products from the old Grotto Cellars company? Look no further!

A common question we are asked is, “can we manufacture and supply kit wine racks and even match racking for custom wine cellars consistent with the style and finish of previously purchased products from the late Grotto Cellars”.

The answer is, yes. Our factory has been exclusively manufacturing wine racks for over 10 years and has, for several clients manufactured products that are consistent with the old Grotto Cellars racking solutions.

Grotto custom wine cellars were a company that leads the custom wine cellar and wine rack market for many years before getting into financial difficulty in 2010, eventually filing for bankruptcy towards the end of that year. For people who previously purchased a kit or custom wine racks from them, it can, therefore, be a problem to source products that exactly match what they already have.

While Wine Cellar Specialists are in no way affiliated with the old Grotto Cellars company we are familiar with the designs, finishes, and styles of their wine rack products.

If you have previously purchased wine rack kits or had a custom wine cellar built by Grotto in the past, and wish to add to your wine racks or expand your existing wine cellar, by working with us at Wine Cellar Specialists you can be assured of a perfect match!

Simply call us Toll-Free at +1 (866) 646-7089 or complete a wine cellar design contact request form and we will be happy to help!

Custom Wine Cellars – What you need to know about the flooring

Wine Cellar Floors

Floor Preparation

When thinking about the flooring for custom wine cellars, you should remember that as part of a climate controlled room it must be prepared properly. This is an area that some people make the mistake of ignoring when creating a wine cellar in their home. If the floor in your cellar is above ground, you must add the same vapor barrier and insulation that you do to your walls and ceiling. Remember, the wine room must be wrapped up tight like a package. If your floor is on a cement slab which rests on the ground, you can get away with adding a vapor barrier only to the cement before applying your floor covering.

We recommend a product called Bostic’s MVP4. It is a Moisture Vapor Protection that is applied with a trowel and left to dry before adding your floor on top.  It is usually available at your local hardware store. Once the moisture barrier is in place, you can add a plywood base or add your flooring directly on top of the vapor barrier.

Flooring Materials for Custom Wine Cellars

What you use for your actual wine cellar flooring material is up to you, as long as you stay away from anything resembling carpet. Carpet or carpet-like materials can mold or mildew in the higher humidity of a wine cellar. Slate, stone, tiles of many materials are fine in a wine cellar. Engineered wood floors are also great for traditional wine cellar designs. However, do careful of wood flooring unless it has previously been aged in a humid environment.

For a particularly special looking custom wine cellar floor reclaimed wine barrel flooring is an excellent choice and becoming more widely used in wine cellars. It is oak and made by master craftsmen from real oak wine barrels that are between 6 and 50 years old. Because these barrels previously held wine, the wood has already been exposed to extreme humidity levels. The barrels are sent through a process that implements a variety of specialized techniques to create an olde world style product line. The flooring can be glued or nailed over an area that has been prepared with a vapor barrier.

 

Three separate styles are available. The Cooperage flooring is made from the barrel head with all of its patina, cooperage stamps and special markings. The Wine Infusion flooring is made from the inside of the wine barrels where the wood has been naturally stained by the wine during the maturation process. The Stave flooring is created using the outside of the wine barrels. When the outside hoops are removed they leave behind distinctive markings and texture.

The wine barrel flooring is a statement of style and brings the history and aged beauty of wine into the personality of your wine cellar. A real conversation piece, this reclaimed wine barrel product is also available in drop-in ready tabletops and counter-tops.

Cork flooring is another great way to create a wine cellar floor. It is durable and very inexpensive. It is what you call a “floating floor” installation. Cork flooring comes in tongue and groove pieces that snap together and are held in place with a simple molding. Several styles, patterns and colors are available.

Both reclaimed wine barrel flooring and cork flooring are very unique and obvious ways to say “this is my special and unique wine cellar”.

Custom Wine Cellar Builders Contractors Installers Chicago Illinois

Check out this sneak peek of a new residential custom wine cellars builders project we recently completed in Naperville a location near Chicago Illinois. As Full Service Wine Cellar Builders, Contractors, and Installers we love building and designing beautiful custom wine cellars, wine tasting rooms and simple closet conversions like this example job. For the full story, interesting before and after images go to custom wine cellars design Chicago.

Custom Wine Cellar Builders Contractors & Installers Chicago Illinois

Custom Wine Cellar Contractors Chicago

Naperville is a smaller city just outside Chicago Illinois. Interestingly it has been voted as the best place to live in the United States several times, even at one time making it to the number two best place to live position. As a smaller U.S. city with a population of around 142,000 (2010), it is actually quite an affluent city with numerous corporate headquarters located in the downtown area. Surprisingly in a 2010 article, Naperville was named as the wealthiest city in the Midwest!  As Custom Wine Cellar Builders it should be no surprise therefore that we maintain a local presence of Wine Cellar Contractors in Naperville, Chicago, and Illinois generally.
If you live in one of these areas and are considering converting an unused room into a Wine Tasting Room or Custom Wine Cellar simply call us Toll-Free: at (866) 646-7089 or complete a FREE Wine Cellar Designs form and we will create a stunning 3D CAD Design Package tailored to your specific requirements without obligation and completely free of charge.

Bistro de la Reine Custom Wine Cellars Commercial Wine Bar

Bistro-de-la-reine Louisiana Commercial Wine Cellars Wine Stores

Check out one of our latest projects in Slidell which is near New Orleans in Louisiana. This Retail Wine Store and Bistro Bar is a great example of what can be done to enhance a Retail Wine Store into something with character and style. Enjoy the video and visit our Commercial Wine Racks New Orleans Louisiana page.

Commercial Custom Wine Cellars and Racks New Orleans Louisiana – Bistro de la Reine

Make your Home Stand Out From The Crowd with a Custom Wine Cellar

To Cool or Not to Cool? (my Wine Cellar) That is the Question! #3

Part Three – Custom Wine Cellars and your home value and desirability

A wine cellar can add considerable value as both a practical room and a unique feature to set your home apart from others. While the primary purpose of building a custom wine cellar should probably be for your own private enjoyment, it can also increase desirability. Upgrades to homes are important to set them apart. Once only found in the very high-end home market, stunning custom wine cellars, are amongst the most nascent additions and ‘must-haves’ for the luxury homes mid-market. They are particularly appreciated in large homes situated in upscale neighborhoods.

3. Am I interested in my wine cellar increasing the value of my home or business?

A room with wine racks is a place to store wine bottles for a limited period of time. A climate-controlled wine cellar with a Wine Cellar Refrigeration System is a place to store your wine collection for future enjoyment or investment. This type of wine cellar is also a good investment in your home or business…increasing the market value of your property.

Make your Home Stand Out From The Crowd with a Custom Wine Cellar

If you are still unsure whether to add a cooling system to your wine cellar but want to get started with your project, at the very least, prepare the room for the future climate control possibility. Add the proper amount of insulation and a vapor barrier in the walls, floor, and ceiling. (See How To Build Your Wine Cellar)

Do your homework or consult a Wine Cellar Specialist to suggest the best method of cooling your space. Then, add the necessary electrical and drain lines when preparing your walls so that your room is ready if cooling is added at a later time.

Aging wine correclty over long periods requires a stable environment - Wine Cellar Refrigeration Units

To Cool or Not to Cool? (my Wine Cellar) That is the Question! #2

Part Two – Wine Cellar Refrigeration

Many times we hear this question, “Do I need to add a refrigeration unit or climate control system to my custom wine cellar?” In order to make a decision about this, there are several things you should think about. This is the second of three blog posts where we will attempt to answer this question.

1. Do I plan on storing my wines for more than 6 months?

If you plan on drinking all of your wines within 6 months of purchase, you may not need a cooled wine storage environment. However, if you want to invest in several bottles of a favorite wine for the future or have wine investment in mind, a climate-controlled room with a Wine Cellar Refrigeration System is a necessity.

Your wine can age 2 to 8 times faster at 73 degrees than at 55 degrees. OR three years at 73 degrees can be the equivalent of 6 to 24 years at 55 degrees. Wine reacts differently at different temperatures. There are good and bad reactions to different temperatures. At higher temperatures, the rates of bad reactions increase more dramatically than the rate of good reactions.

 Aging wine correctly over long periods requires a stable environment - Wine Cellar Refrigeration Units

There’s a reason the word “Cellar” is in the phrase “Custom Wine Cellars”

Humidity is also a factor. Most homes maintain a humidity of around 20-30%, though this can vary enormously in different regions. In order to maintain the separation of your home’s humidity and the humidity needed in your wine cellar, the room must be prepared properly and a climate-controlled system installed. With too low a humidity, the corks can dry out and air seeps into the bottles, destroying your wines. With too high a humidity, the labels could fall off and mold and/or mildew could occur.

This could be disastrous, imagine a group of you special most loved vintage wines, after one or more years of anticipation, spoiled!  Simply due to improper storage conditions.

Have you measured the day-night variance in your Wine Cellar? - Wine Cellar Refrigeration Variance

To Cool or Not to Cool? (my Wine Cellar) That is the Question! #1

Part One – Wine Cellar Refrigeration

Many times hear this question, “Do I need to add a cooling unit or climate control system to my wine cellar?” In order to make a decision about this, there are several things you should think about. This is the first of three blog posts where we will attempt to answer this question.

1. What is the ambient temperature of the areas surrounding my wine cellar?

If your wine cellar is below ground level, in a basement, you are more likely to have a cooler environment than an above-ground cellar would have. Knowing the year-round temperature and humidity is important. If you are attempting to build a “passive” wine cellar (a wine cellar with no climate control), you need to make sure both the temperature and humidity are consistent and within the required limits year-round.

The temperature in a wine cellar should stay between 55-60 degrees and the humidity should range from about 50-75%. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity are some of the biggest factors that can destroy your wine collection. If your environment does not lend itself to a passive cellar, you may want to consider climate control, technically described as a wine cellar refrigeration system.

Have you measured the day-night variance in your Wine Cellar? - Wine Cellar Refrigeration Variance

Have you measured the day-night variance in your Wine Cellar? – Wine Cellar Refrigeration Variance

Natural seasonal and in particular, day/night cycles generate surprising variations in temperature. These often vary more than most people realize. Wine Cellar Refrigeration may be vital to the long term stability of your wine collection.

Residential Custom Wine Cellars Dallas Howell – Sneak Peek

Check out our new page for this project that tells the full story and detail behind our recent Custom Wine Cellar Closet Dallas Texas conversion. You can also enjoy a sneak peek of the project by watching the video below.

Custom Wine Cellars Builder Dallas Texas – Howell Closet Conversion Peek
 

Wine Cellar Cooling Systems by US Cellar Systems

See other similar projects such as the Johns Residential Wine Room Dallas Texas or the Commercial Wine Racks Bistro Wine Store

Custom Wine Cellars Seattle Washington Reynolds Table

Things to Consider Before Designing a Wine Cellar

Designing good looking and safe custom wine cellars does not need to be rocket science. You just need to be aware of a few basic things to ensure that you have the right set of racks and wine cellar design to store your favorite wine bottles safely and in an aesthetic manner.

Custom Wine Cellars Design Dallas Dave
Residential Wine Cellars TexasConsider your needs over time – How many bottles are currently in your wine collection and how much additional space will be needed for future storage. A good rule is to double your current bottle count for your wine storage.

  • Evaluate the wine cellar’s location and design with regards to potential enemies of wine – high temperature, humidity, vibrations. Will you be needing a climate control system?
  • Plan the design of the wine racks as per the size and shape of bottles that you want to store. 750’s, magnums, larger size bottles? Case storage, bulk storage, or individual bottle storage? Display rows with lighting?
  • Will you use your wine cellar for strictly storage purposes or do you want it to be more of a showplace?
  • What type of wine cellar cooling units will you be using? Will a unit or a fan coil be inside the cellar effecting where your racks can be placed?
  • How much are you willing to spend on your wine cellar? Discuss this with your designer so that he or she can more accurately design your cellar within your budget. Wood species, stain, lacquer, lattice or solid bins, carvings, many things can make a huge difference on the cost of your racks.
  • Do you want a rustic look, a furniture look, or perhaps something more contemporary? Many styles of racks are available from traditional, wine barrel, metal and more. Discuss your thoughts with your designer and share any photos of other cellars and racks that you have seen and would like incorporated into your design.

Custom Wine Cellars Dallas Texas Bottles

The dimensions of the room must be carefully measured before you complete your final wine racks design. Measure the length of each wall in the room. Measure the ceiling height. Measure exactly where the door will be placed. Also consider the space occupied by cooling units, soffits, or any other obstructions.

At Wine Cellar Specialists, we offer you personal guidance and help you to create a custom wine cellar that will compliment your style and home décor. Visit us at https://www.winecellarspec.com/ .

Wines worth storing in a Cellar

Those who love collecting wine also like to display their collection with pride in a well-designed wine cellar. However, not all wines age gracefully.  This is not to say that you should not have young drinking wines in your collection. However, they should be ideally placed in a suitable area of the wine rack where they can be chosen to drink before it’s too late. Continue reading →

Well-Designed Texas Commercial Wine Cellars

Designing Custom Commercial Wine Cellars

Elegant Floor to Ceiling Wine Racks Installed by Master Builders of Custom Commercial Wine Cellars

Elegant Floor to Ceiling Wine Racks Installed by Master Builders of Custom Commercial Wine Cellars

How can you attract potential customers to purchase wine in your restaurant, hotel, or wine store if you have mediocre wine displays? Wine Cellar Specialists, a trusted builder in Texas, designs and installs commercial custom wine cellars that can help the owners to generate profit. We create eye-catching wine displays for restaurants, hotels, and retail stores. We offer innovative and budget-savvy wine rack solutions that maximize storage capacity and allow for better wine management and convenient monitoring.

Choose Stylishly and Quality Wine Racks to Attract Potential Customers

Your wine rack system has a big role in product presentation. Therefore, you must work with a creative and knowledgeable builder of commercial custom wine cellars. At Wine Cellar Specialists, we always aim to help the owners of wine businesses increase their wine sales by creating an enticing wine display in their establishments.   

If you invest in mediocre storage units, do not expect an increase in sales. While deciding upon the features of your commercial wine racks, it is important to consider style, functionality, and materials.

The style depends on the kind of wines that you have for display. Think about what you want your customers to feel when they enter your premises.

Should the impression be ‘California Vineyard’, ‘European wine cellar’ or a more contemporary look? This will help you to choose the right design or style of your wine cellar.

We will also consider the size and shape of your wine room, the existing theme of your commercial establishment, and your personal preferences. After making a careful assessment of your needs, we will start creating a 3D design that will show the racking styles and bottle capacities of the completed wine room.   

For functionality, you have to think in terms of floor space required. Will you have a cooled room for your more expensive wines, or will everything be displayed in the store floor space?

How many bottles will you want to have in stock? How many different labels will you want to display? Do you want bulk storage as well as individual bottle storage? Do you want a space for case storage?

Knowing your needs and requirements will help us create the perfect wine storage system for your commercial wine cellar. We will ensure that the wine cellar solution does the job of displaying your stock properly and functions well as the business grows. We will also create a design that will maximize the storage capacity of your wine room.

We will recommend the best options for your project, but we will follow your decision on the racking styles and materials. Do you like wood racking or metal racking?

Wood Racking or Metal Racking?

Wooden Commercial Wine Racks

Wooden Commercial Wine Racks

Wooden commercial wine racks are widely used in wine cellar construction because of their visual appeal. Its warmth and classic look will enhance the beauty of your Texas commercial wine cellar. They can be made from attractive wood species, such as Redwood, Mahogany, and Pine.

Redwood and mahogany are most often chosen when considering wood wine racks. These wood varieties are known for their beauty, durability, and high resistance to mildew, making them suitable for climate-controlled wine rooms.

Knotty Alder is another popular material used for wine racks. It is known for its attractive burls and knots, which can be highlighted when the right finish or stain is chosen. 

Pine can also be used if you are not placing the racks in a cooled environment. Wine racks made from pine are not only beautiful but versatile as well. Whether stained or unfinished, they can go well with any theme in your hotel, restaurant, or wine store.

However, Wine Cellar Specialists recommend staining and lacquering your wooden wine racks to make wooden wine racks more appealing to clientele.

You should choose the wood and finish that blends well with the décor of your store. The texture, grain and colour of the wood also have an important impact on the finish and overlook of your wine cellar.

As for durability, Mahogany is the hardest wood, followed by redwood. Pine is a softer wood but is also the most cost-effective.

Metal Wine Racks for Contemporary Commercial Custom Wine Cellars

Metal Commercial Wine Racks Texas

Metal Commercial Wine Racks Texas

Texas commercial wine cellars with modern design are also eye-catching. Nowadays, minimalist interiors are in-demand in a commercial setup.

Wine Cellar Specialists uses metal wine racks to create stunning wine storage displays. These storage units offer a space-efficient and cost-effective wine storage solution. They can also blend well with any existing décor.

Metal racking in black or platinum finishes are commonly used in commercial wine racking for a more contemporary look.

For many years, we have been using metal wine racks from top-notch suppliers of contemporary wine storage systems like VintageView, STACT, and Ultra Wine Racks.

Hire a Master Wine Room Builder

For more information on commercial wine cellars, and to get professional help and a free drawing for your wine rack design and floor plan, visit https://www.winecellarspec.com.

What You Must Know About Building a Texas Home Wine Cellar in a Basement

Wine cannot age gracefully if stored in poor conditions. It should be stored in an environment where the temperature and humidity are stable. The basement is an ideal place to build a Texas home wine cellar because it is the cooler area of your home. However, always keep in mind that important components must be installed in order to achieve the optimum conditions needed by wine to mature properly.     

Requirements in Building a Basement Wine Cellar in Texas

basement wine cellar

Basement Wine Cellar

Wine needs a cool environment to preserve its quality. Too much heat exposure can ruin wine’s flavour, aroma, and overall complexity.

The basement of your home can be an ideal place to store wine.

You can build a complete wine cellar in your basement, which is usually a cooler part of the house as compared to other rooms at the ground level. It is easier for builders to stabilize the temperature and humidity in basement wine cellars. A custom wine cellar in your basement can be made in any size that you have the space available.

Lighting System and Wine Cooling System

Texas wine cellar lighting and cooling

Wine Cellar Lighting and Wine Cooling System

While planning your basement wine cellar, also remember that it would require some lighting and a cooling unit. Lighting is an important part of the wine cellar ambience. Led lighting and recessed air lock ceiling lights often work well in custom wine cellars for the home.

At Wine Cellar Specialists, we recommend the LED lighting system. It is known for its low heat emission, which can protect wine from being damaged.

Standard lighting fixtures are not ideal for illuminating wine storage spaces because they emit too much heat.

A dedicated circuit for cooling unit will need to be available or installed. The wine refrigeration system plays a very important role in wine ageing. Using standard home air conditioners can result in wine oxidation.

Oxidized wines have an unpleasant flavour and smell. You don’t want your favourite vintages to become undrinkable due to temperature fluctuations and unstable humidity levels. Investing in a quality wine refrigeration unit is recommended.

Wine Cellar Specialists offers commercial-grade wine cooling systems from trusted manufacturers: Wine Guardian, WhisperKool, CellarPro, and US Cellar Systems.

Proper Insulation for Texas Wine Cellars

Texas wine cellar insulationComplete construction of the walls, floor and ceiling with a vapour barrier and the proper amount of insulation must occur. Make sure you are adding the correct wine cellar door to completely seal the room.

Proper insulation of refrigerated wine cellars is important because it can prevent moisture build-up. A poorly insulated cellar will force your cooling unit to work harder and may result in breakdowns and high-energy bills.

Seek Professional Help for Your Next Project.

The help of professional wine cellar designers can make it a lot easier to create beautiful and safe wine rooms. At Wine Cellar Specialists, we have years of experience in designing residential wine cellars. If you want to have a wine cellar, you can use any spare room in your home, such as your basement. Our creativity and passion in building climate-controlled wine cellars helped us complete installation projects with satisfaction.

Call us today at +1 (866 ) 646-7089 get the best wine cellars at the most affordable prices, or request a 3D custom design for FREE!

Custom Wine Cellars

There are no standard rules that apply to all wine cellars. You can customize yours per your individual or personal needs – the budget, the space in which the cellar needs to be accommodated, the number of wine bottles that need to be stored and the general climate in your area. Continue reading →

The Benefits of Building a Texas Wine Cellar in Your Home

Creating a safe wine storage facility requires the help of a professional wine cellar builder. Failure to store wine in a climate-controlled environment will result in waste of time and money you spent for your collection. For this very reason, Wine Cellar Specialists recommends investing in a functional Texas custom home wine cellar that will preserve wine for many years to come. They ensure that every wine room they build is installed with essential components, especially the wine cellar cooling system. Their expertise in proper wine storage enables them to build safe home wine cellars. 

One of the Most Outstanding Custom Wine Cellars Designed and Built by wine Cellar Specialists

One of the Most Outstanding Custom Wine Cellars Designed and Built by wine Cellar Specialists

An Effective Residential Custom Wine Cellar – the Perfect Place for Your Growing Collection

Texas home wine cellar

Custom Home Wine Cellar Designed by Wine Cellar Specialists Texas

Any oenophile worth his or her weight in wine knows that enthusiastic wine collecting needs a suitable place at home in which to grow. Fortunately, as more and more people turn to wine as a hobby, your options for building a wine cellar or having a wine cellar built in your home continue to grow.

Wine cellars are not particularly difficult to find room for in a moderately sized home, and you can not only find plenty of do-it-yourself guides to help you along the way, but also get help from experts ready to make your dreams come true.

Wine Cellar Specialists is your one-stop source for all things related to wine storage. They provide the essential components for your Texas home wine cellar, such as wine racks, cooling systems, doors, and flooring. They have found that the cellar itself is often the easy part of the project. You may know where in your home you can build a space in which to store your wine.

With the help of an expert like Wine Cellar Specialists, you do not have to break the bank to build a functional wine cellar in your home. They will create a well-thought-out design that will suit your functional, aesthetic, and financial requirements.  

A well-designed residential wine cellar will not only keep your wines safe for many years. It will also enhance your guests’ drinking experience. Wine Cellar Specialists cares for your collection. Therefore, they always see to it that every wine cellar they build has high-grade components and are installed correctly.

Preserving Wine Quality with an Efficient Wine Cooling System

Texas wine cellar cooling system

Wine Cooling System – an Essential Component of Texas Wine Cellars

You may know about the temperature requirements for your cellar, and you may even know about the difference in humidity your cellar needs to be at, compared to the rest of your house.

Wine needs a stable environment to preserve its desirable characteristics. Extreme temperature changes will deteriorate your wines. To achieve the ideal wine storage conditions, wine be stored in a wine cellar equipped with a reliable wine cooling system.

The type and capacity of your cooling unit depend on the number of bottles in your collection, and the size and location of your wine room. If you are not sure which refrigeration system suits your needs, please see the different wine cooling options offered by Wine Cellar Specialists.

Wine Cellar Specialists will perform a heat load calculation for the proper sizing of your wine cooling system. This process will ensure that your equipment is not too big nor too small for the size of your wine cellar.

This team of experts has extensive knowledge and understanding about proper wine storage. They know the crucial role of wine cellar refrigeration units in protecting the wine’s from external factors such as heat, light, odor, and vibration. They offer reliable wine cellar cooling systems from the following top-notch manufacturers:

  • WhisperKOOL
  • Wine Guardian
  • CellarPro
  • US Cellar System

CustomWine Racks

Whether you want something custom to your taste, or you want one of our modular rack kits, Wine Cellar Specialists can help.

Your wine rack system is one of the factors that contribute to the overall appeal and functionality of your Texas home wine cellar. You must choose the right material and design to allow for a more organized storage system, to ensure bottle safety, and to create attractive wine displays.

wood and metal wine racks for Texas wine cellars

Wood and Metal Custom Wine Cellar Racks

Wine racks can be made of wood or metal. Wooden wine racks add warmth to your storage space. They are durable and offers design flexibility. Their timeless appeal make them a favorite choice of homeowners, builders, designers, architects, and contractors. Redwood. Mahogany, and Alder are some of the attractive and durable wood species used for manufacturing wine racks.

Metal wine racks are ideal for modern homes. They add sleek appearance to custom wine cellars. Master builders recommend the VintageView metal racking systems. They are known for their durability and ability to match any décor. The label forward orientation of VintageView wine racks makes it easier to see the wine labels.

Custom Wine Cellar Doors

wine cellar door Texas

Texas Custom Wine Cellar Door

But you know one part of the wine cellar that often goes overlooked until the very end? Wine cellar doors. Don’t leave your door as an afterthought. It is as important as your cellar itself.

As many options as you have for cellars, your options for cellar doors are just as limitless. Keep in mind that the door needs to be exterior-grade, provide insulation, and have proper weather stripping. Beyond the practicality of the door you pick – it is the FIRST thing you and your guests see when you walk into your cellar. You want to pick something that not only fits the rest of your home but also fits your cellar AND your personality.

If you choose a door that opens into your cellar, but make sure that the door will not hit any racks (or, more importantly, any bottles of wine) when it opens. If you pick a door with glass, make sure the glass is duel pane tempered glass and properly fits the door frame. Most of the cold air that escapes from a wine cellar escapes from under the door. An automatic door bottom will help to seal below the door. If you pick a poor door, then all of the work you’ve invested in your cellar and your wine may be for nothing.

Any wine collector knows that a wine cellar is the way to go. Not only does it give you total control over your wine and its storage, but it will also, in time, add value to your home.

You may choose between solid wooden door, a glass door with wooden frame and wrought iron grill, and a seamless glass door.   

An Expert Can Help Build Your Dream Wine Cellar

Why build a wine cellar? Why not build a Texas home wine cellar? And why not let the experts help you make your wine cellar dreams come true?

Wine Cellar Specialists has proven its expertise, reliability, and creativity in building outstanding refrigerated wine cellars for homes.

If you have questions or want more information about how they can help you build a custom wine cellar, call Wine Cellar Specialists at 972-454-0480, or you can e-mail them at info@winecellarspec.com. They can help you stay within budget, find something that fits your needs, and something that not only shows off your superior taste but also complements your fine wine collection.

How to Make the Most Out of Your Texas Home wine cellar

So you’ve decided to build a home wine cellar. Or, you already have one. Great. You know you’re a serious wine collector when you have a wine cellar in your home. Not only do you have a safe place in which to let your collection age and gain in value, but you also have a great place to take guests coming over for dinner. Let them wander in your cellar, maybe even select the wine you’re serving with dinner. Or, rather, select the wine with them.

Proper Wine Storage Tips

proper wine storageBut as with anything, there is good storage and there is bad storage.

Good storage can help protect your wine while bad storage and destroy your wine in no time at all.

Make sure that doesn’t happen to you by following these simple rules for storing wine in your home (whether in a home wine cellar or in your kitchen).

Wine Should Not be Exposed to Excessive Heat

Wine should be stored in dark places. Don’t let the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays get to your wine.

These rays can damage your wine and, in some cases, make it undrinkable. That’s why most experts suggest storing wine in a Texas home wine cellar, or, lacking that, on a rack that you’re able to keep in an out-of-the-way place.

Your wine storage space must be installed with the proper lighting system. Seek the help of an expert to ensure that your wine cellar lighting does not emit too much heat.

Keep Wine Away from Vibration

Believe it or not, vibrations (like what you’d feel in a room abutting a garage with a door that opens and closes electrically) aren’t good for your wine. Where you store your wine should be as free of vibrations as possible.

Too much vibration can accelerate the chemical reactions in the wine. It can disturb the sediments in wine and may ruin the complex flavours and aromas of the wine. Building a wine cellar near any equipment, machinery, or appliance is not recommended.

Temperature and Humidity Must be Regulated

temperature and humidity in Texas wine cellarsThe temperature and humidity of the place where you store your wine are critical for best protecting it. If you can use or have access to a hygrometer, great.

The humidity in the room where you store your wine should be between 50 and 75 percent. If you realize that the humidity is low, do something about it. Install a humidifier, if you’re storing wine in a room as opposed to a cellar. And if you’re storing wine in a climate-controlled cellar, your unit will already get rid of excess humidity.

Keep in mind that wrong humidity levels can cause moisture build up in your Texas home wine cellar. When this happens, your wine room can be a breeding ground for moulds and mildew. These fungi can damage your wine labels, the quality of your wines, as well as the integrity of your racking.

In the rare cases where you need to add humidity, a wine cellar humidifier can be installed or use the poor man’s method… add a small container of water across the room from the cooling unit. The moisture will be drawn up through the air as the unit tries to rid the room of excess humidity. Problem solved.

As for temperature, your wine should be stored in at approximately 55 degrees. Make sure you can control the temperature in the space where you are storing your wine. Most climate control systems come pre-set at 55 so you do not have to adjust.

When the temperature is not regulated, wine cannot preserve its desirable characteristics. Very low or very high temperatures can cause unpleasant tastes in wine.

Choose Quality Wine Racks Manufactured by an Expert

Florida wine racks

Beautiful Wine Racks System

The way you rack your wine is also important. Did you know that if you have a display row where your wine is stored at an angle, it should be at no more than a 15-degree angle so the cork stays moist? If you buy pre-made racks, make sure this is possible.

If you’re having racks built, make sure your builder knows what he or she is doing. It is best to hire a company who specializes in wine cellars. Even then, be aware that all of the manufacturers do not make their racks with the same quality or specifications.

Also, make sure that your wine rack system is designed with features that will enhance your drinking experience with family and friends. Your chosen builder should assess all your functional and aesthetic requirements. This will help them create a Texas home wine cellar that will store and display your favourite vintages safely and beautifully.  See quality wine racks offered by a master builder.

Organize Your Collection Effectively

wine invenntory system Texas eSommelier

e-Sommelier Wine Inventory System

Finally, you have to keep your wine storage organized. The organization is key to a good wine storage system. Store your wine by category or by collection. Keep a written record of what you have and where you are storing it.

Depending on your collection, you may be doing this for insurance reasons anyway. If you have a large collection you might want to invest in a computerized inventory control system. It really is the best way to make the most of your storage system.

A Wine Storage Specialist Can Build a Safe and Attractive Wine Room for You

With the help of a master builder, you can have a Texas home wine cellar designed to store your collection properly. Planning to start your wine room project? Wine Cellar Specialists can help you! Contact them today at +1 (866 )646-7089 or request a 3D wine cellar design for FREE!

 

The Right Wine Cellar Storage Conditions for Aging Wine

Wine will not last long if stored in poor conditions. It needs to be kept in an environment where temperature and humidity are regulated. Which is why it is important that you invest in a Texas wine cellar installed with the right components. This will make wine collecting more enjoyable. In this article, you will learn how the ideal storage conditions will help wine mature properly in your Texas home wine cellar.

Vital Components in Wine Cellar Construction

wine cellar insulation

Proper Wine Cellar Insulation Must be Installed by a Specialist

As you probably know, the cooling unit you put in place in your Texas home wine cellar will help to determine how your wine will be when you decide to open and drink it.

Getting Expert Opinion on Wine Cellar Storage Conditions

Before your begin your installation project, consult with a Wine Cellar Specialist to determine the exact cooling unit that will be best for your circumstance and have them do a heat load calculation.

Heat Load Calculations Give Most Accurate Account of Size of Cooling Unit Needed for Proper Conditions.

You cannot go just by cubic footage to properly size your unit. Many other factors are involved such as amount of glass, interior or exterior walls, what is above and below the cellar, type of insulation to be used, etc.

Without first doing a heat load calculation and figuring out which unit will work best for you, costly mistakes can be made that are very difficult to undo later down the road.

Before talking about the conditions under which to store red and white wine, let’s review what your cellar should have before you move in any wine.

Wine Cellar Preparations to Achieve Optimum Storage Conditions Needed for Proper Aging of Red and White Wine

There are several key steps in building a wine cellar that’s designed for ideal wine storage conditions.

Adding a Vapor Barrier

There are two ways to make sure your wine cellar has the proper vapor barrier:

  1. The old method, which we no longer recommend, is to add 6 mil plastic to the warm side of the cellar and fill the studs with batt insulation. This method can be easily compromised over time and years later, you could have moisture issues if the seams come apart or the plastic is penetrated.
  2. The recommended method is to use the correct thickness of closed cell foam. This acts as your vapor barrier as well as insulation. You must use a minimum of 3” on any interior walls. We recommend at least 5” on exterior walls, ceilings, and any floors that are not on slab. Any seams or double studs, etc, must also be polysealed correctly to eliminate any areas where moisture could penetrate. It is wise to have a specialist do the foam for you.

Adding a vapor barrier and insulation will depend on which method you are using. If using the plastic and batt method, you can install the plastic part before your cooling lines and electric are run. If using the foam method, DO NOT foam until the electric and cooling lines are installed.

Insulation of Walls and Ceiling

  • The proper insulation should then be installed in the walls and ceiling. When using the old method, you will get R-13 insulation in the walls and R-19 in the ceiling. If you use foam, you will get R-19 and R-30, which is better. The more insulation you add, the less work your cooling unit will have to do. This could save you money in the long run… so insulate well to achieve the perfect storage conditions in your wine cellar.
  • wine cooling systems Texas

    Cooling Systems are Essential in the Proper Aging of Wine

    • Before installing your walls, depending on the wine cooling unit you are using, you may want to run a drain line, your copper lines (if applicable) and be sure to wire for your electrical. All units will need a place to drain and must have a dedicated circuit for the compressor.
  • For the walls, you have a choice. You can use any moisture resistant material. You can put a ½” plywood down first to make it easier to attach your racking to the walls… recommended especially if using metal racking. Then add greenboard, or something similar. Another method is to add a heavy paneling such as a tongue and groove board or other board material that you might like to see in your room. Just make sure it is moisture resistant. If you are painting the walls, use a latex paint.

Installation of Wine Cooling System

  • Now install your cooling unit. Again, depending on the unit you use, you may need to hire a licensed HVACR contractor for this. An HVACR contractor is required for your warranty to be valid if you are using any split system.

These are very basic steps. Clearly, there is more to building a wine cellar in your home than the steps we list above, but we list them to give you an idea of the work involved in creating a space in your home that will preserve and help age wine in a room with ideal storage conditions.

A master wine cellar builder can help you throughout the process, from deciding the kind of cellar you want and where you want it to doing the actual work.

wine cellar racks Texas

The Right Type of Wine Racks is Important in Wine Storage

Proper Storage of Red and White Wines

wine storage Texas

Wine Cellar Specialists can Build the Proper Wine Storage Place for your Collection

Once your cellar is in place, you get to move on to the fun part – actually storing your wine. We will cover in a series of other blog posts the types of racks you can use in your cellar, but here, let’s briefly talk about the best wine cellar storage conditions for red and white wines.

Wine Storage Conditions The Same for Red and White Wine

Both red and white wines should be kept at the same storage temperature. They both react the same way to the same storage conditions.

Ideal storage conditions protect wine from harmful environmental factors, preserving its desirable characteristics.

Drinking Temperature For White Wine

Drinking temperature is a different issue. Keep in mind that serving wine too hot or too cold can result in flat flavors and aromas. The right serving temperature can help preserve the freshness and fruitiness of wine.

White wines may not be chilled enough in your wine cellar. Before serving white wine, take the wine out of your cellar and put it into an ice bucket before you are planning to serve it. Serving champagne? Definitely chill champagne on ice before serving it. If you add water to the ice, the wine will chill faster.

Importance of Optimum Storage and Serving Temperature in the Aging Process of Wine

wine storage

Red and White Wines Must be Stored at the Ideal Storage Temperature

The 55 degree wine storage temperature is equally important, if not more so, with your red wines. They typically are the wines that need more time to age before drinking. However, the 55 degrees is not the temperature you will want to drink your red wines at either.

The Right Drinking Temperature for Red Wine

Contrary to popular belief, red wine should not be served at normal room temperature. Depending upon the wine you are drinking, the ideal drinking temperature varies. There are may charts available online to help you along the way. When in doubt, serve the wine a few degrees cooler than room temperature. Richer aroma is released as the wine warms up to room temperature.

Cooling and the Aging Process of Wine

No wine should be served over 68 degrees F.  Keep in mind that the cooling process helps age your wine and will let you store it for longer periods of time than just putting it away elsewhere.

One unit can serve to store red and white and conditions ideal for them, but remember you may need to take an extra step (cooling or “warming”) before serving.

Essential Wine Accessories for Serving Wine

In addition to serving wine at the right temperature, you can invest in wine accessories to enhance your wine drinking experience.

Aerator

An aerator is a must-have gadget of wine enthusiasts. It is used to reduce the level of carbon dioxide in wine. This process is called aeration, which can help increase your pleasure of drinking your precious wines, especially young ones.

Aeration allows wine to be exposed to the right amount of air, giving wine a smoother texture and pleasant aromas.

Decanter

Wine Cellar Specialists Master Builders of Wine Storage Rooms Texas

Wine Cellar Specialists Master Builders of Wine Storage Rooms Texas

Another important wine cellar accessory is the decanter. The dark residuals in your glass or wine bottles are known as sediments. Before drinking wine, these sediments should be separated from the liquid to eliminate harsh flavors.

It is a common practice to let a bottle stand vertically for at least 24-36 hours prior to decanting. This will allow for easy decanting because the sediments will settle at the bottom of the bottle.

Other Tips in Serving Wine

  • When pouring wine, the wineglass must be on the table, not in your hand.
  • Use a bigger wine glass for reds, and smaller ones for whites.
  • Pour only 5-6 ounces of wine in a glass.

Contact a Wine Storage Expert

When it comes to providing wine the perfect wine storage conditions, you can rely on Wine Cellar Specialists. They have built climate-controlled wine cellars in Texas, Chicago, and Florida. Request a custom wine room design today or call them at +1 (866 ) 646-7089.

So you want your own wine cellar?

While you can build a wine cellar in any part of your home, remember that where you build your wine cellar will affect how much you spend yearly in Cellar-related costs. The temperature in most wine cellars is between 55 degrees and 58 degrees, and wine cellars typically have a humidity of between 50% and 75%, so, if possible,  pick the coolest and most humid place in your house and be sure to use the correct amount of insulation and vapour barrier in the wall construction. Doing so will help you lower your overall costs, because this may allow you to use a smaller-sized cooling unit. Continue reading →

Wine cellar efficiency

After deciding to build a wine cellar in your home (or have one built), you should look at the cellar’s overall efficiency first. How the cellar will look, and whether or not it will match how the rest of your house looks, should be a secondary concern. Of course, the design isn’t an afterthought, but at the end of the day, the colours you use in your wine cellar, if you use colors, will not help you protect and store your wine collection. Continue reading →

Uses for a Custom Wine Cellars in the home – Dallas, Texas

If you have asked yourself if you need a wine room or even a custom wine cellar in your home, then you already have your answer. Just asking the question means that you have gone beyond the normal wine drinker who may have a few bottles on hand for the occasional dinner party or night in. Because a wine cellar (and, let’s face it, wine) is an investment, you should be thinking about the type of wine room you want in your home, not just whether you want one. Your wine cellar should grow with you and your collection, and unless you’re not planning to sell your home, then your home wine cellar should be built in such a way that it will appeal to someone other than you. A wine cellar, and or even a wine tasting room may be a nice incentive for someone buying a home, so make sure it is. Continue reading →

Maintaining the temperature and humidity in your wine cellar

Wine storage is much more than the wine you choose to store inside. In fact, the wine, contrary to what you might think, is less a factor in an effective wine cellar than the cellar itself. Of course, ultimately, the wine inside your cellar is what will matter, but in the beginning, and, to some degree, going forward, the cellar itself is what will make or break your collection. Without the right temperature and humidity, and in less than ideal conditions, the wine you hope to one day enjoy or sell (wine as an investment is not as rare as you may think) will not be there. Instead, with some careful planning, forward-thinking, and the right cellar, how you want your wine to be when you one day drink it is achievable and very possible. Continue reading →

What’s the best custom wine storage for you? | Wine Racks vs. Wine Cellars

Depending on your wine storage needs, as well as the space you have available in which to store wine, you may need to decide between a simple system comprised of wine racks, or you may opt to build in your home a custom wine cellar, which would include wine racks as part of its overall construction and usability.

Choosing the Best Wine Storage Solution for Your Needs

Every wine collector has different functional, aesthetic, and financial requirements. It is for this very reason that you should work with an experienced Dallas, Texas wine cellar builder. At Wine Cellar Specialists, they offer effective wine storage solutions that cater to their clients’ needs.

Depending on your needs, you can invest in wine racks or a wine cellar.

Wine Racks

Wine racks can fit in your kitchen. And that may be just what you’re looking for. Racks are inexpensive and can easily store a few bottles of wine. If you’re not a serious collector, or if you’re not planning to hold on to the wine you buy for any length of time, then go with a rack. There are several great options out there, and most of them require little time on your part. In fact, if you find a premade rack that works for you, even better.

wine racks Dallas Texas

Wooden Wine Racks

Wine Cellar Specialists, a wine storage expert in Dallas, Texas, offers wine racks built with efficiency, durability, and appeal. You may opt for wood or metal wine racks.

Wood Wine Racks

One of the most versatile wine rack design, wooden wine racks can be used in traditional and modern wine cellars. It’s available in various styles and sizes. You can even use a black stain for a contemporary look to show off your collection! The different types of wooden storage racks are stand-alone, wall-mounted, modular, stackable, and custom wine racks.

Metal Wine Racks

custom modern floating black wine racks

Modern floating wine racks

The popularity of modern design for custom wine cellars has been growing consistently, along with the rise of technology. No need to keep your wines in the dark, show them off with these minimalistic metal wine racks. 

Wine racks designed to mount on the wall are highly recommended for small wine storage spaces. Stackable wine racks are ideal for a growing wine collection since you don’t need to modify your racking if you want to add more bottles.

 

Wine Cellars

home wine cellar Dallas Texas

An Elegant Wine Cellar Installed in Dallas, Texas

Just like other wine collectors, racking alone is probably not for you. Valuable red and white wines should not be stored in the kitchen, not if you expect them to increase in value and remain robust. Building a wine cellar in your home is probably the right option for you.

The wine cellar you build should regulate humidity and temperature since both are essential to protecting your investment.

Dallas, Texas wine cellars are designed to maintain the optimum conditions need in the proper ageing of wine. They are equipped with a wine cooling system that can keep the temperature and humidity at the ideal range. Without an efficient climate-control system, your collection will go to waste.

See other blog posts about the right temperature and humidity in which to keep your wine.

If you want, you can also install a refrigerator in another part of your home. Never put a wine refrigerator inside your wine cellar. The motor on the unit will give off heat and make it harder to keep your room at a constant temperature. Your cooling unit will be fighting the heat coming from the refrigerator. You can use the refrigerator to chill the white wines you intend to drink soon. But for storage temperature, your white wines and your red wines can be stored together in the same wine cellar.

More Tips from a Wine Cellar Expert in Dallas, Texas

residential wine cellar Dallas Texas

Home Wine Cellar with Wine Barrel Racks

Wine Cellar Specialists provides the following tips to help you determine the right storage solution that suits your needs.

When planning your home wine storage system, whether using a cellar in your home or racks in your kitchen, long-term thinking requires you to think about durability. Don’t just go with a wine rack that looks strong. Make sure your rack can stand on its own and can handle the number of bottles of wine you’d keep on it at one time. Don’t plan for the least possible situation. Make sure your rack can handle anything you may want to use it for.

Consider the way your home looks before buying your wine racks. If your home is more modern and metal, then go with a metal rack, but if there is a lot of wood in your home, then go with a wood rack. There is also the possibility of reclaimed wine barrel racking. This is a more costly way to go but, if you can afford it, it truly makes for a magnificent look. It also has the smell of a winery when you walk into the room as the wood used for this racking was originally used for barrels that held wine. That wine smell is still in the wood.

Your wine storage system can be as individual as your specific taste in wine. No matter the vintage, and no matter your choice, storing your wine is as important as pairing it with the right meal and for the right dinner guests.

Need help? Contact Wine Cellar Specialists today at +1 (972) 454-0480.

Things to Think About Before Installing a Texas Custom Wine cellar in Your Home

Mistakes in wine room construction can be avoided if you work with the right company. We, at Wine Cellar Specialists, have extensive knowledge in proper wine storage. We have designed functional custom wine displays and installed Texas wine cellars with the proper components. Before the wine room installation, there are important questions that need to be answered, to ensure that our clients will be happy with the beauty and functionality of their wine rooms.

Questions That Needs to Be Answered Before Custom Wine Cellar Installation

Texas wine cellar

A Wine Cellar Must be Built by a Professional

Yes, wine cellars are a good investment, especially if you are a wine connoisseur. Consider your wine collection. Maybe you don’t know how you became a collector.

A couple of bottles you bought for dinner became a case for a week’s vacation with friends and all of a sudden you’re reading labels and asking about vintage and years.

What’s next? Worrying about storage temperature. If you don’t think about it, that special bottle you’re saving for a golden anniversary or for when that promotion goes through may not taste as special as you are hoping.

Once your thoughts turn to storage temperature, it’s time to think about a wine cellar of your very own.

Some questions you may have, or at least some questions others at the start of their wine cellar process have had, and some answers. Of course, your situation is unique to you. Some of the questions may not apply. Remember, we’re here to help. Call us at 972-454-0480, or you can e-mail us at info@winecellarspec.com.

Is special construction required?

proper wine storage Texas

Wine Will Age Properly in the Right Environment

The fluctuation of temperature is the number one cause of wines going bad. You want your wine cellar to have a constant temperature of between 55 degrees and 58 degrees, and maintain a humidity of between 50% and 75%. The temperature in most homes hover around 70 degrees, and the humidity in most homes is somewhere between 20% and 30%.

Of course, where you live, and the temperature and humidity outside probably affect the temperature and humidity in your home.

The proper insulation and vapor barrier in the walls are the first steps to creating a wine room. These will keep the wine cellar humidity at the ideal range by preventing the warm air from leaking into the wine room.

Without proper insulation, molds and mildew can build up in your wine cellar, which can damage the integrity of your racking and walls. This can also damage the wine labels.

The next step is to find out which climate control system is right for you. After the assessment of your needs, Wine Cellar Specialists will be able to recommend the type and brand of wine refrigeration system that suits your storage requirements. This will stabilize the temperature and humidity in the wine room. Regular air conditioners don’t have the capacity to provide the right environment that will help the wine to age gracefully.

View the different cooling options for Texas wine cellars.

Can I install a Texas wine cellar anywhere?

Yes. However, keep in mind that where you install your wine cellar will affect how much you spend on its upkeep going forward. Also, heat, light, and vibration can affect your wine. Pick a spot without windows preferably (so you don’t have to worry about covering them) and away from any noise is best. The type of climate control system you can use also depends upon where your room is located. Consult a Wine Cellar Specialist.

When does the cooling unit go in?

Normally, your refrigeration system goes in after the drywall is installed. However, you will want to run the electrical and drain lines during your wall construction.

Do I need to install special flooring?

Texas Wine Cellar Flooring

Yes. You need to install flooring that can withstand high humidity. Carpeting just will not do, since it may likely rot.

Concrete is OK, as long as it is sealed properly. Porcelain or granite tiles, cork, or hardwood flooring is most often recommended.

When creating a climate-controlled Texas wine cellar, be sure that the proper vapor barrier is also under your flooring material.

Do I need custom wine cellar lighting?

Backlit Lighting in a Texas Custom Wine Cellar

Custom wine cellar lighting is key to achieving a moody and dramatic look

While it’s fine to opt out of installing lighting for your custom wine cellar, we highly recommend adding a bit of decorative lighting to improve the overall ambient of the space. Furthermore, it adds some pizzazz to your wine collection. With LEDs, you don’t have to worry about the heat it produces. It won’t affect the temperature and the state of wine bottles, thanks to the low-power nature of LED. Alternatively, you can install a chandelier to illuminate the entire room space. The combination of warm lighting and dark-shaded bottles creates a soothing look and feel for a Texas custom wine cellar. What’s even better is that it works and blends well whether it’s traditional, modern, or contemporary custom wine cellars.  

How to properly light a Texas custom wine cellar?

If you are planning to add lighting decorations to your wine cellar, you need to know how to install lights in a wine cellar the right way. Aside from chandelier or ceiling lighting, you can try the backlit style. With the bulbs hiding behind wine bottles, the illumination creates a silhouette effect that dramatically adds mood to a wine rack. Sometimes, the color of the wine makes everything a lot more interesting. Another style that’s popular nowadays is accent lighting. All you need to have are several LED strips and run them along the shelves. You can get creative and find the best spots for accent lights. This is one of the best ways to light a custom wine cellar, especially if you want wine racks to be the focal point. 

I don’t want to build my wine cellar. Can anyone do it?

Wine Cellar Specialists Texas

Wine Cellar Specialists Texas

Yes, most likely. A blanket statement like anyone can build your wine cellar is difficult to back up. If your builder follows proper Texas wine cellar construction and enclosure guidelines, then yes, anyone can help you.

The materials your builder will need for your wine cellar are easy to find and often used in other home projects. But you should ask any builder you consider for the job if they have experience with wine cellars, and if not, if they work with anyone who does.

When it comes to installing climate control, many units will require a licensed HVAC/R contractor.

The most affordable builder, or the builder who promises to have your wine cellar finished in the shortest amount of time, may not be the best builder for your job. Think long-term appreciation, not short-term satisfaction. We, at Wine Cellar Specialists, will create your wine cellar from start to finish… or work with your builder to help educate him on the best methods when building your room.

Storing Red and White Wine

As you probably know, the cooling unit you put in place in your wine cellar will help to determine how your wine will be when you decide to open and drink it. Before talking about the conditions under which to store red and white wine, let’s review what your cellar should have before you move in any wine.

Preparing the Room to Meet Wine Storage Requirements

  • wine cellar insulation TexasPrepare your wine cellar before installing your cooling unit.
  • Put a vapor barrier in place in the walls and ceiling. A vapor barrier consists of  6 mils plastic sheeting and must be installed on the warm side to serve as a barrier between the cellar and the rest of your home. The room should be wrapped like a package so no moisture can escape.
  • Put a vapor barrier on the floor. If the floor is concrete, you can use a product that goes on with a trowel found at most hardware stores. One recommended product is Bosticks MVP4.

Any tile or wood flooring can be installed right over this product once it drys. If your floor is above ground, you will want to add your vapor barrier and insulation just as you did on the walls and ceiling, while building up the floor.

  • The proper insulation should then be installed in the walls and ceiling. A minimum of R-13 in the walls and R-19 in the ceiling. However, the more the better. The more insulation you add, the less work your cooling unit will have to do. This could save you money in the long run… so insulate well.
  • Before installing your walls, depending on the cooling unit you are using, you may want to run a drain line, your copper lines (if applicable) and be sure to wire for your electrical. All units will need a place to drain and must have a dedicated circuit for the compressor.
  • wine cooling systems Texas

    An Efficient Wine Cooling Unit is a Vital Component of Wine Cellars

    For the walls, you have a choice. You can use any moisture-resistant material. You can put a ½” plywood down first to make it easier to attach your racking to the walls… recommended especially if using metal racking. Then add a green board, or something similar.

  • Another method is to add a heavy paneling such as a tongue and groove board or other board material that you might like to see in your room. Just make sure it is moisture resistant. If you are painting the walls, use latex paint.
  • Now install your wine cooling unit. Again, depending on the unit you use, you may need to hire a licensed HVACR contractor for this. An HVACR contractor is required for your warranty to be valid if you are using any split system.

These are very basic steps. Clearly, there is more to building a Texas wine cellar in your home than the steps we list above, but we list them to give you an idea of the work involved in creating a space in your home that will perfectly preserve and help age any wine you store. Experts can help you throughout the process, from deciding the kind of cellar you want and where you want it to doing the actual work.

Best Conditions for Wine

wine cellar racks Texas

Once your cellar is in place, you get to move on to the fun part – actually storing your wine. We will cover in a series of other blog posts the types of racks you can use in your Texas wine cellar, but here, let’s briefly talk about the best conditions under which to store your red and white wine.

wine temperatureBoth red and white wines should be stored at the same temperature when it comes to storage. Ideal storage conditions protect wine from harmful environmental factors, preserving its desirable characteristics.

Drinking temperature is a different issue. Keep in mind that serving wine too hot or too cold can result in flat flavors and aromas. The right serving temperature can help preserve the freshness and fruitiness of the wine.

White wines may not be chilled enough in your wine cellar. Before serving a white wine, take the wine out of your cellar and put it into an ice bucket before you are planning to serve it. Serving champagne? Definitely chill champagne on ice before serving it. If you add water to the ice, the wine will chill faster.

The 55-degree storage temperature is equally important, if not more so, with your red wines. They typically are the wines that need more time to age before drinking. However, the 55 degrees is not the temperature you will want to drink your red wines at either.

Contrary to popular belief, red wine should not be served at normal room temperature. Depending upon the wine you are drinking, the ideal drinking temperature varies. There are many charts available online to help you along the way.

When in doubt, serve the wine a few degrees cooler than room temperature. The richer aroma is released as the wine warms up to room temperature. No wine should be served over 68 degrees F.  Keep in mind that the cooling process helps age your wine and will let you store it for longer periods of time than just putting it away elsewhere.

One unit can serve to store red and white and conditions ideal for them, but remember you may need to take an extra step (cooling or “warming”) before serving.

Essential Wine Accessories for Serving Wine in Your Texas Wine Cellar

In addition to serving wine at the right temperature, you can invest in wine accessories to enhance your wine-drinking experience.

Aerator

An aerator is a must-have gadget of wine enthusiasts. It is used to reduce the level of carbon dioxide in wine. This process is called aeration, which can help increase your pleasure of drinking your precious wines, especially young ones. Aeration allows the wine to be exposed to the right amount of air, giving the wine a smoother texture and pleasant aromas.

Decanter

Another important wine cellar accessory is the decanter. The dark residuals in your glass or wine bottles are known as sediments. Before drinking wine, these sediments should be separated from the liquid to eliminate harsh flavors. It is a common practice to let a bottle stand vertically for at least 24-36 hours prior to decanting. This will allow for easy decanting because the sediments will settle at the bottom of the bottle.

Other Tips in Serving Wine

  • When pouring wine, the wineglass must be on the table, not in your hand.
  • Use a bigger wine glass for reds, and smaller ones for whites.
  • Pour only 5-6 ounces of wine in a glass.

 

Best Tips from Wine Cellar Cooling System Experts in Texas

Climate-Controlled Home Wine Cellar in Texas

Climate-Controlled Home Wine Cellar in Texas

One of the reasons wine loses its desirable characteristics is choosing the wrong wine cellar cooling system. Keep in mind that a regular air conditioning system for homes should not be used to stabilize a wine cellar environment. Wine Cellar Specialists, a wine cooling expert in Texas, is dedicated to helping clients select the best wine refrigeration system that suits the requirements.

Why it is Crucial to Work with a Wine Cellar Cooling Expert in Texas

You cannot enjoy the true bouquet of your favorite vintages if you do not store them in a climate-controlled environment. Wine must not be exposed to excessive heat, direct source of light, odor, and vibration. It is a smart idea to invest your time and money in building a safe place for your precious collection: a wine cellar designed to achieve the optimum storage conditions.

The Ideal Environment Required for the Graceful Aging of Wines

The ideal temperature in a wine cellar is between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, while the humidity level must range from 60 to 70 percent. Excessive temperature fluctuations will accelerate wine’s aging process, which can result in off flavors and aromas.

High humidity levels also have a negative impact on the quality of your wines. If your wine cellar exceeds the ideal humidity level, the cork will shrink, become brittle, and eventually lose its elasticity.

The cork’s elasticity plays a significant role in sealing the bottle and prevents an unwanted amount of oxygen to enter. When it decreases in size, air will mix with the wine and cause wine oxidation. An oxidized wine smells like burnt fruit or wet cardboard.

Another effect of high humidity levels is mold growth on the wine racks, cork, wine labels, in the wall cavities, and ceiling. You can prevent these wine storage issues if you hire a reliable wine cellar builder who is also a cooling expert in Texas.

Wine Cooling System Options

Wine Cellar Refrigeration System Installation Project in Texas

Wine Cellar Refrigeration System Installation Project in Texas

While you need to make sure that the temperature and humidity in your wine cellar are maintained at the right levels, there are different ways you can do this. When you set out to build a wine cellar in your home (or have one installed), you will more than likely hear about different cooling options. The primary options include self-contained, ductless split, and ducted split systems.

Essential Tips in Choosing a Wine Refrigeration System for Your Cellar

Which system you go with will depend on your needs. Before deciding, consult with an expert. They can help you decide in which direction to go, and may be able to offer services with about putting the cellar in place. Most wine cellars, if done correctly, will need little long-term maintenance, so an initial expense may be worth it if your later costs are minimized.

As mentioned in a different blog post, a wine cellar is not going to keep any white wine you serve at a temperature desirable for serving. You must remember to take out the white wine and chill it before serving.

Never Put a Wine Fridge Inside Your Wine Cellar

So, while a cellar is the best place in which to store white wine, some people also install a wine refrigerator somewhere else in the home in which to keep white wine that you intend to serve and drink soon. You do not want to put a wine refrigerator inside the cellar itself. The motor will give off heat and combat the cooling system, making it take more energy to cool the room.

Buy a Wine Cooling Unit That Has a Humidity Control Feature

Wine Cellar Cooling System Installed by Experts in Texas

Wine Cellar Cooling System Installed by Experts in Texas

A wine cooler is not the drink you can buy, and it is not some type of cooler you take with you on a picnic or to the beach. A wine cooler, or cooling unit, is desirable because it will help keep your cellar at one steady temperature. For storing wine, temperatures should be close to a constant 55 degrees. Most wine cooling units you can buy will not come with a humidity control device on the unit.

However, they all will help to control the humidity by getting rid of the excess. There are some units, which claim to re-route the moisture and add it back into the cellar when needed. These units have “humidity control.”

In most parts of the country, low humidity is not an issue. When the room has a proper vapor barrier and insulation, and the unit is cooling the room, the humidity will naturally rise higher than the air outside of the cellar.

If humidity is a factor for your wine cellar, you can install a humidifier, use a unit that has humidity control, add a fountain, or try the poor man’s method of adding a container of water to the opposite side of the room as the cooling unit. The unit will draw the moisture up through the air adding extra humidity to the room.

Different Types of Wine Cooling System Offered by Wine Cellars Specialists in Texas

Self-Contained Wine Cooling System

Self-Contained Wine Cooling System

At Wine Cellar Specialists, we always make a careful assessment of our client’s needs to ensure that every component we install meets their aesthetic, functional, and financial requirements. There are several ways to keep your cellar cool.

We offer self-contained through-the-wall, self-contained ducted, ducted split, and ductless split wine refrigeration systems.  You and your chosen builder must understand the features of each of these climate-control systems.

Self-Contained Through the Wall Wine Cooling Systems

The most cost effective is a self-contained unit, which goes through the wall and into the next room. You have to have a room that is at least twice the size of the cellar for this type of unit. The exception is if you duct the exhaust out of the second room to another area. Some units allow for this option.

There is also a wine cooling unit made that can vent to the outdoors. It is meant for extreme conditions. Be sure that you have the correct unit if placing the unit in an outer wall. Anyone can install this type of unit. However, it is the noisiest of all of the systems, as the fan and compressor are both in the one unit.

Self-Contained Ducted Wine Cooling Systems

One of the most popular styles of cooling units today is the ducted self-contained system. If you have a room next to the cellar or an attic above it is a perfect way to cool your room. Both the evaporator and condenser are contained in one unit and is ducted to and from the cellar. This unit does not require an hvac contractor to install as it comes pre-charged with the freon already in the system.

Ductless Split System

Ductless Split Wine Cooling System

Ductless Split Wine Cooling System

Another unit is a ductless split system. With this unit, the evaporator, or fan coil is placed inside the cellar and is connected via two copper lines to the compressor which can be placed either in another large room in the house or outdoors.

Ducted Split System

Self-Contained Ducted Wine Cooling System

Self-Contained Ducted Wine Cooling System

The fourth type of cooling unit is a ducted split system. This is a system where the evaporator and the condenser are both located remotely and the cool air, and the return air are ducted in and out of the room.

The evaporator is indoors in a separate space and is connected to the condenser (which usually sits outdoors) with two copper lines.

Both the ductless and the ducted split systems must be installed by a licensed HVAC/R contractor. There are other types of units on the market as well.

Avoid Costly Mistakes by Working with a Wine Cellar Cooling System Specialist in Texas

Consult with a wine cellar specialist in Texas when choosing the type and brand of your wine cooling system. Purchasing the wrong unit can be a costly mistake. A well-built wine cellar can be located anywhere in your home where one of these units can be installed.

If you need help, please do not hesitate to call us at +1 (866 ) 646-7089.

Wine Cellars – Design & Efficiency

After deciding to build a wine cellar in your home (or have one built), you should look at the cellar’s overall efficiency first. How the wine cellar will look, and whether or not it will match how the rest of your house looks, should be a secondary concern.

Wine Cellars – Design & Efficiency

Of course, design isn’t an afterthought, but at the end of the day, the colors you use in your wine cellar, if you use colors, will not help you protect and store your wine collection.

Making sure your cellar is efficient means that your wine cooling unit must be the proper size for the room and emit the proper BTU’s to efficiently cool the room according to your specific conditions. (see other blog posts for information on cooling unit options)

Your cooling unit, more than likely, is going to look and sound very different from what you might be thinking. Depending upon which type of unit you can use in your situation, the look of your cooling unit could vary greatly.

Selecting the right Wine Cellar Cooling Units

climate control system Texas

Wine Cellar Climate-Control System

When you pick your wine cellar cooling unit, there is usually an external temperature display on it. The wine cellars’ cooling unit will help you monitor and regulate your wine cellar’s temperature. With some units this display can be placed in a spot inside or outside of your wine cellar.

On others, it is attached to the unit itself. This temperature display will show you how hot or cold your cellar is, and if the temperature fluctuates out of your preset range, it will “tell” the cooling unit to readjust the temperature inside the cellar. This should happen automatically.

Because your wine cellar, as one expert puts it, is “dark and damp,” always install moisture-resistant materials during the build-out of the project. These materials can be covered with a latex paint.

Types of Wine Cooling Systems for Texas Custom Wine Cellars

Depending on how you plan to use your wine cellar (is it for an investment, or do you plan to drink the bottles of wine you will store in your cellar), you will want to choose the best cooling option for you. Wine Cellar Specialists can help you decide the system to put in place in your home.

Through the Wall or Self-Contained Units

self-contained wine cooling system

Self-Contained Cooling System

When it comes to practicality and ease of installation, the self-contained or through the wall cooling system is a top choice. Since this cooling option does not require a licensed HVAC/R technician, it will save you from the labor cost. The unit can be mounted between the wall studs.

An adjacent room, which must be at least twice the size of the cellar, is required. It serves as an exhaust of the heat generated by the refrigeration unit.

Ducted Self-Contained Systems

ducted self-contained refrigeration system

Ducted Self-Contained System

With a ducted self-contained unit, noise is reduced. The unit is installed 25 ducted feet away from your Texas custom wine cellar, resulting in a quieter operation compared to the self-contained system.

Another advantage of choosing this type of refrigeration system is that no cooling equipment is visible in your wine storage space. If you want a clean look in your cellar, go for the ducted self-contained system.  

Split Refrigeration Systems

split wine cooling system

Split Refrigeration Systems

Just like the ducted-self-contained cooling system, the split system allows for quiet operation. The condenser and the evaporator are installed separately. The condenser, which is a noisy component of a refrigeration system, is installed outside your wine cellar, while the evaporator is placed in the room.

Incorporating a wine cellar into your house is not overly complicated. Doing it right means taking your time, focusing on efficiency, and making sure you have the right people helping you make the right decisions that will best protect your investment and give you your desired result.

Uses for a Wine Cellar in the Home

home wine cellar Texas

You Can Have a Functional and Appealing Home Wine Cellar with the Help of an Expert

If you have asked yourself if you need a wine cellar in your home, then you already have your answer. Just asking the question means that you have gone beyond the normal wine drinker who may have a few bottles on hand for the occasional dinner party or night in.

Because a home wine cellar (and, let’s face it, wine) is an investment, you should be thinking about the type of custom wine cellar you want in your home, not just whether you want one.

Your wine cellar should grow with you and your collection, and unless you’re not planning to sell your home, then your wine room should be built in such a way that it will appeal to someone other than you.

A Residential Custom Wine Cellar may be a nice incentive for someone buying a home, so make sure it has broad appeal.

One benefit to having a wine cellar of your own, is it allows you to buy wine in bulk. Wine by the case is less expensive than one or two bottles.

Wine by the case is also less expensive when it is young, and if you know wine (and if you want a wine cellar in your home, then you must know wine), these young wines, once mature, will taste better and result in a larger return on your investment. It also allows you to purchase larger quantities of a wine that you discover and particularly enjoy, to assure that you will be able to have a stock of it for the future.

Home Wine Room Chicago

How will you use your wine cellar (in other words, what prompted you to ask the question in the first place?)? Will you use it strictly for storage, will you also use it as a tasting room, or is it to be a showplace? How you plan to use it is important to know, because that can affect the way you construct your room, or at least the size of it and how the racking is designed.

If your wine cellar will be used just for storage, then think about how many bottles of wine you currently have as well as how many bottles of wine you plan to accumulate.

Your cellar should be able to grow with you and your collection. Make sure you can maximize the bottle storage for the space you have. If you want a wine room and think that you just don’t have the space, look around at unused areas. Do you have a stairwell? And, if you do, can you build out underneath it? Unused closets? Maybe you use it to build out a cellar.

Residential Wine Cellars Designed and Installed by Wine Cellar Specialists in Texas and Chicago

VintageView Wine Cellars, Metal with Wood Coppel TX Project – Near Dallas

custom wine cellar Coppel Texas

Metal and Wood Custom Wine Cellar in Texas

This contemporary home wine cellar is located under the curved staircase. The racking is made of metal and wood, resulting in a unique wine storage space.

Chevis Home Wine Cellar with a Rolling Ladder – Dallas, Texas

Installed with attractive mahogany wine racks, this residential wine cellar aesthetically appealing and offers great features. A rolling ladder was added for easy access to bottles stored beyond normal reach.

Contemporary Custom Wine Cellar – White Rock Lake Area, Dallas, Texas

This modern design was created by Wine Cellar Specialists for their client in Dallas, Texas. The metal wine racks from Vintage View are mounted on the wall, creating a sophisticated custom wine display.

Dave Custom Wine Cellar with Barrel Table – Palos Heights Chicago Illinois

Located in the basement, this home wine cellar displays the owner’s wines in unfinished redwood wine racks. A wine barrel table was added to add a distinct look to the wine room.

An Efficient Wine Refrigeration System is Essential for Proper Home Wine Storage

wine cooling systems for Texas and Chicacago wine cellars

Wine Refrigeration Systems

Where you build the room will be dictated by the ability to install your climate control system. Controlling the temperature is critical to ensuring your collection is protected and continues to grow in value.

When the ideal temperature (55-65 degrees Fahrenheit) is maintained in a cellar, wine will not be oxidized. Oxidation causes off flavors and discoloration in wine.

Additionally, an efficient wine cooling system also regulates humidity levels need in preserving wine’s quality. Humidity levels higher or lower than the normal range (60-70%) will damage the corks and wine labels.

View the different types and brands of wine cooling systems.

If you have considered building a wine cellar in your home, then don’t ask yourself if you should build one; ask, instead, how big you want it to be and what will go inside of it.

Wine racks are the framework of your custom wine cellar.

Whether you are building your wine cellar for storage or display, you must take into consideration what kind of racking system you want. Wine racks make your wine cellar collection organized. A well-organized collection of wine is not only pleasing to the eyes but it’s also practical for the owner. You won’t have a hard time trying to find any particular wine you want in your collection.

What wine rack should you use for your custom wine cellar?

Enhance the appearance of your wine cellar with a wooden rack.

Revamp your custom wine cellar with a wooden wine rack.

Wine racking systems come in all shapes and sizes. There are two major types of wine racks. First, there’s the wooden rack. Then, there’s the metallic racking system. What material to use depends on your preference, how large your wine collection, and the reason you are building a wine cellar.

Wooden racks are good insulators. These racks lessen the heat going through your wine bottles. This feature is favorable since heat could trigger premature spoilage of your wines. And, wooden racks give your wine cellar a classy and traditional look.

Metallic racks, on the other hand, give your custom wine cellar a modern and contemporary look. These racks are known for their durability and strength. Given they are installed in an optimum wine cellar condition, metallic racks are easy to maintain.

Whether you’ll be using your custom wine cellar for storage or display, making a well-informed decision on what wine rack to use could make the most of the functionality for each variant.