---
title: "How to Store Wine Properly: 5 Rules to Preserve Quality"
description: "Proper wine storage preserves quality, flavour and complexity over time. Discover the 5 key rules — from bottle position to temperature, light and humidity."
author: "Enovitae Staff"
published: 2023-09-13
tags: ["wine storage", "conservation"]
url: https://enovitae.com/en/academy/how-to-store-wine
cover_image: https://enovitae.com/_astro/vino-in-cantinetta.B_29EUF8_Z1hWw1k.webp
source: Enovitae.com
---

## Introduction

Proper wine storage is essential to ensure that wine retains its quality, flavour and characteristics over time. If you have already opened a bottle, find out how to [reseal it correctly](https://enovitae.com/en/guide/how-to-reseal-wine.md) before putting it away. One of the most common questions about wine [storage](https://enovitae.com/en/academy/how-to-store-wine.md) is: is it better to keep bottles upright or on their side? In this article, we explore the five rules for proper wine storage, explain the various storage options, and outline the pros and cons of each.

## Bottle position: upright or on its side?

### Upright

Many people believe that standing bottles upright is the best option to prevent prolonged contact between the cork and wine, reducing the risk of cork contamination or deterioration over time. This practice is particularly common for wines sealed with natural cork.

- Pro — Reduces the risk of cork contamination.
- Con — May cause partial cork exposure to air, potentially leading to premature wine deterioration if stored long-term.

### On its side

Some experts consider storing bottles on their side the ideal solution. This position prevents air from penetrating through the cork and maintains a constant level of moisture within the bottle, helping to preserve the wine.

- Pro — Maintains constant humidity around the cork and prevents oxidation.
- Con — May cause humidity issues in the event of accidental leaks in the cellar or wine cabinet.

## Storage temperature

Storage temperature is another crucial factor in preserving wine quality over time. Keeping the wine at a constant, appropriate temperature helps avoid excessive fluctuations that could damage it.

## Light and humidity

Light and humidity can have a significant impact on wine [storage](https://enovitae.com/en/academy/how-to-store-wine.md). Direct sunlight can damage wine by causing premature oxidation, while excessive humidity could damage labels or encourage mould growth.

## Horizontal or vertical storage

Wine bottles can be stored either horizontally or vertically. The choice depends on the type of closure used.

**Horizontal storage**

- Pro — Prevents the cork from drying out and reduces the risk of contamination.
- Con — Requires adequate horizontal space for storing bottles.

**Vertical storage**

- Pro — Optimises storage space.
- Con — May cause the cork to dry out, especially in wines sealed with natural cork.

## Storage duration

How long you intend to [store](https://enovitae.com/en/academy/how-to-store-wine.md) the wine is a crucial consideration. Not all wines are meant to age, and some varieties are designed to be enjoyed young and fresh.

**Short-term storage**

- Pro — Allows you to enjoy the wine at the height of its fresh, youthful characteristics.
- Con — Some wines may not develop or improve significantly over time.

**Long-term storage**

- Pro — Allows you to experience the evolution and complexity of aged wines.
- Con — Requires careful bottle selection and proper [storage](https://enovitae.com/en/academy/how-to-store-wine.md) conditions.

## Conclusions

Wine storage is a delicate art, but by following a few simple rules, it is possible to preserve the quality and flavour of wine over time. The choice between upright or on-its-side storage, temperature, light and humidity management, horizontal or vertical positioning, and storage duration will all depend on the type of wine and personal preferences. Experimenting and learning which solutions work best for your bottles can enrich the wine experience and ensure many pleasurable moments of tasting.