You don't need an underground cellar and a leather-bound ledger to look after wine. You need a cool, dark spot and a bit of common sense.
Keep it cool and steady
Heat is wine's enemy. A steady, coolish temperature matters far more than a perfect one. Avoid the top of the fridge, above the oven, or a sunny windowsill.
Dark is your friend
Light, especially sunlight, ages wine prematurely. A cupboard is perfect.
Cork on its side, screwcap however you like
Bottles with corks are best stored on their side to keep the cork moist. Screwcaps can stand up quite happily.
Once it's open
Most opened wine is at its best within three to five days, kept in the fridge with the cork back in. Sparkling keeps its fizz longer with a proper stopper. If in doubt, that's a fine excuse to finish the bottle.
Quick Questions
How long does opened wine last?
Most opened wine stays good for three to five days in the fridge with the cork replaced. Fortified wines last longer; sparkling keeps fizz best with a proper stopper.
Do I need a wine fridge?
No. A cool, dark, steady spot such as a cupboard away from heat and light is perfectly good for everyday and bargain wines.
