Cabernet Sauvignon is a delicious red wine made from different red grapes that can grow in various climates. It has a shelf life of about seven years to a decade. Moreover, it contains dark, fruity flavors with oak notes, perfect for steak and cheese nights.
Whether you’re a wine collector or just have a few bottles for special occasions, it’s crucial to store your wines properly to preserve their flavor. Below are some dos and don’ts to note in storing your Cab Sav.
Should You Chill Cab Sav?
According to Expert Wine Storage, most people should chill their red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon), because their average room temperature will be warmer than the recommended storage temperature of 57-60°F (14-16°C). Other helpful cabernet sauvignon storage tips include:
Dos In Storing Your Cabernet Sauvignon
Do Store It In A Dark Place
It’s ideal for placing your wine bottles on a wine rack in your kitchen cupboard, pantry, or basement. This is because light is one of the leading causes of oxidation, which could result in your wine losing its flavor and aroma over time. If you’re going to wait to drink your Cabernet Sauvignon, make sure you store it in a dark place without direct sunlight exposure.
Do Store The Bottles Horizontally
When storing your bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon, you’ll want to be mindful of the oxygen that touches it. Too much air can oxidize the wine and give it a sour flavor or cause it to spoil.
To prevent this, it’s recommended to store the bottles horizontally to keep the cork moist and in contact with the liquid. When wine is stored vertically, the cork can dry out. In effect, particles may fall into the wine, affecting its taste. Moreover, it creates space that lets oxygen seep in, disturbing the wine’s aging process.
Do Store It At The Correct Temperatures
Not all wines are created equal, and the same goes for how they should be stored. Cabernet Sauvignon, for example, can be stored at a temperature slightly lower than other varieties. The ideal storage temperature for your Cabernet Sauvignon is around 55°F.
If you don’t have a wine cellar in your house, the easiest way to replicate these conditions is to store your wine in a refrigerator. This will keep it at the ideal temperature and prevent it from spoiling. Just be sure to take it out of the fridge a few hours before drinking it so it can come to room temperature.
Do Store It At The Right Humidity Levels
Storing your Cabernet Sauvignon at the proper humidity will keep your wine fresh and help to ensure it lasts for as long as possible. The ideal humidity level for storing red wine is between 50 – 70% relative humidity. Anything less than 50 can be too dry and cause the cork to dry out. If the humidity gets too high, too much moisture can be trapped within the bottle, leading to mold or mildew growth.
If you store your bottle in a humid space, you can use a hygrometer to check the room’s relative humidity. If it’s not within that optimal range, you can use a dehumidifier or air purifier in the area. You can also purchase special dehumidifying wine accessories such as humidity beads or silica gel packets, but these should be changed regularly.
Don’ts In Storing Your Cabernet Sauvignon
Don’t Store It In Direct Sunlight
You should never store your Cabernet Sauvignon or any wine in direct sunlight. This is because ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause it to age prematurely. That’s why keeping your wine in a dark, cool place like a cellar or wine fridge is recommended.
Don’t Tamper With The Taste
Tampering with the taste of wine is a big no-no. This means avoiding any factors that will damage the flavor of your Cabernet Sauvignon. Make sure the bottle is never left at an angle, as this can cause sedimentation and tannin buildup—both of which affect the flavor of Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s also best to drink it in wine glasses to fully enjoy the rich taste of Cabernet Sauvignon.
Don’t Jostle The Wine
Try to avoid jostling the bottles by storing them with less foot traffic. The wine inside is fragile, so a bump or vibration can easily damage its flavor potential. You can check your bottle every few months to ensure nothing unexpected has happened.
Conclusion
Now that you have helpful tips for storing your Cabernet Sauvignon, you’ll be able to keep it in delicious peak condition for years to come. Consider following the guidelines above; your wine will stay fresh, tasty, and easy to drink. Cheers!
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1 comment
It’s great to see how many wine lovers are taking the time to learn the proper way to store their cabernet sauvignon. There’s no doubt that with the right storage conditions, this popular red wine can reach its peak flavor profile. That’s why I wanted to provide a few extra tips that can help ensure your wine is stored properly.
First and foremost, it’s important to keep your cabernet sauvignon stored in a cool, dark place. This will help preserve the flavor and aroma of the wine, and prevent the tannins from becoming overly bitter. You also want to make sure that the temperature remains consistent, and doesn’t fluctuate too much throughout the day. To achieve this, I recommend investing in a quality wine cooler or refrigerator.
On the other hand, you’ll want to avoid storing your cabernet sauvignon in direct sunlight, as this can cause the wine to spoil prematurely. Additionally, make sure to store your bottles upright, as this will help keep the cork moist and prevent air from entering the bottle. Finally, try to avoid shaking or agitating the bottle, as this can disturb the sediment and cloud the wine.
Overall, with a few simple tips, you can ensure that your cabernet sauvignon is stored properly and keep it in peak condition for years to come. Thanks for sharing your wisdom and helping us wine lovers get the most out of our favorite bottles. Cheers!