The purpose of a wine cooler is to maintain your wine at the right temperature to ensure long life and prime taste. Problems can arise when you use other means to store your wine.
Using a standard refrigerator poses diverse issues. Not only is it set colder than recommended but also the temperature fluctuates throughout the day and night whenever it is opened.
Storing wine in a closet, garage, etc. is contraindicated as it allows the wine to be exposed to higher temperatures that fluctuate continually.
Both methods can lead to deterioration via chemical reactions which can shorten the wine’s life and negatively affect the taste.
assorted varieties and types of wine neccesitate diverse storage temperatures. Light bodied sweet dessert wines and white sparkling wines require the lowest temperatures (41-50 degrees F); light bodied aromatic white and full bodied dessert wines need 46-54 degrees F; red sparkling, medium body whites and light bodied reds require 50-54 degrees F; full bodied white wines about 54-61 degrees F; medium bodied red wines require 57-63 degrees F; and full bodied red wines call for 59-64 degrees F.
A 2 Zone wine cooler is better because of the differences in temperature storage requirements of the various wines.
Another benefit to consider is that wine chillers can manage the humidity, another detriment to wine storage. The cooler will also help protect your wine from the various odors that exist in normal refrigerators, like food and other beverages.
It also is a good idea to store wine on its side so the cork can remain moist.
Be sure to regard the reputation of the company and the quality of the model of wine cooler. Look at how it cools (thermoelectric helps reduce unecessary vibration and does not use ozone-depleting chemicals like CFC’s or HCFC’s, which is better for the environment), whether ts has at least 2 zones (to give more flexibility in storing different varieties of wines), and if it is backed by a complete satisfaction guarantee.
A good Wine Refrigerator is a wonderful investment if you treasure your wine and your tasting experience.