As you are creating the proper environment your wine storage space, keep in mind that different types of wine will require specific conditions to maintain their unique flavors and textures. Temperature, humidity and light are some of the most important factors that determine whether or not your wine will age with grace. Check with your local wine dealer to understand the right conditions for your wine type of choice.

Temperature  

Cooler temperatures, specifically those between 43°F and 68°F, are ideal for storing wine as it helps the wine age properly over time, lending it more body and character. However, when the temperature of your wine storage space falls below this range, the colder temperatures will slow down wine’s natural chemical reactions, causing ruinous deposits or suspensions to develop within the bottle. On the other hand, temperatures higher than 68°F will accelerate the aging process. Temperature of your chosen storage space will fluctuate, especially during seasonal changes. While seasonal temperature fluctuations within 10°F won’t damage the wine, daily or even weekly changes in temperature are likely to speed up the aging process of your wines. Typically, white wines are far more likely to spoil under temperature changes than reds wines. 

Humidity   

While humidity describes the amount of water vapor, or moisture, in the air, ullage is a term that refers to the distance between the wine’s cork and the wine itself. Along with affecting wine’s flavor, the humidity of your storage space will alter the ullage, which can allow oxygen to enter the wine bottle if the cork shrinks too much.

Over time, the wine’s contact with oxygen causes it to oxidize, spoiling the wine as it raises its acidity. Ultimately, oxidized wine will taste bitter. 

Ideal humidity for wine storage is any factor higher than 70 percent RH (relative humidity). Within this range, the cork will remain sufficiently expanded to protect wine from coming into contact with oxygen.