FAQ Library
Wine Fridges
What is the ideal temperature for storing wine?
Wine stores best at 50–59°F (10–15°C), with 55°F (13°C) ideal for ageing.
What is the difference between a wine fridge and a regular fridge?
Wine fridges maintain stable temperature, 60–70% humidity, low vibrations and UV-protected doors. Regular fridges are too cold, too dry and vibrate heavily.
How do I choose the right size wine fridge?
Choose a fridge that fits your current collection with at least 25% extra space for growth. Consider whether you want single or dual-zone cooling.
What is the difference between single-zone and dual-zone wine fridges?
Single-zone fridges have one temperature throughout. For mixed storage, set it to 52–55°F (11–13°C).
Dual-zone models let you store reds at 12–14°C and whites at 8–10°C.
Can I store red and white wine together?
Yes — ideally in a dual-zone fridge. A single-zone set to 52–55°F works as a good compromise.
How important is humidity control?
Aim for 60–70% humidity to keep corks from drying out.
What features should I look for?
Temperature precision, humidity stability, UV-safe door, low vibration, quiet running, Energy Star rating, and a lockable door.
If you plan to build the fridge in, it must be front-vented.
How do I clean and maintain my wine fridge?
Unplug the fridge, remove shelves, clean with mild detergent, wipe seals, and clear dust from vents.
How long can wine be stored in a wine fridge?
Fine wines can age 10–25+ years. Everyday wines are best enjoyed within a few years.
What if my wine fridge stops cooling?
Check power, settings and ventilation. If this doesn’t fix it, contact the manufacturer or a technician.
Are wine fridges energy-efficient?
Most modern units are. Look for energy-efficient compressors or inverter technology.
Walk-In Modern Wine Cellars
What are the benefits of a walk-in wine cellar?
A walk-in cellar provides optimal ageing conditions, large capacity and full customisation.
How do I maintain temperature and humidity in a cellar?
Use a specialised cellar cooling system set to 55°F (13°C) and 60–75% humidity.
Can I customise my walk-in cellar?
Yes — shelving, racking, lighting, layout and materials can all be tailored to your space.
What lighting should I use?
Use low-heat, UV-free LED lighting to protect your wine.
How do I protect my wine cellar?
Install a sealed, secure door, proper insulation and vapour barriers, and temperature/humidity alarms. A backup power system is recommended.
Cigar Humidors
What is the ideal humidity level for a humidor?
Aim for 65–75%, with 70% as the ideal target. Keep the temperature around 65–70°F (18–21°C).
How often should I season my humidor?
A brand new humidor should be seasoned for 7–14 days. After that, only re-season if humidity won’t stabilise.
What materials are best for humidors?
Spanish cedar is preferred for humidity retention and aroma. Alternatives include mahogany and maple.
How many cigars does a humidor hold?
Sizes range from 25 cigars to more than 300, depending on the model.
How do I maintain consistent humidity?
Use a reliable hygrometer, top up the humidification device and avoid opening the lid too often.
Cheese Fridges
What temperature should a cheese fridge be set at?
Set between 38–45°F (3–7°C). Soft cheeses prefer the higher end.
How do I store different cheeses?
Separate strong-smelling cheeses from milder ones. Use breathable wrapping such as wax or parchment paper.
Can I store wine and cheese together?
Strongly not recommended. Cheese aromas can transfer through corks and taint wine.
How do I clean my cheese fridge?
Unplug the fridge, wipe surfaces with a mild detergent, and ensure good airflow. Remove expired items quickly.
What features should I look for?
Adjustable temperature, humidity regulation, easy-to-clean shelves and good odour control.
Champagne Fridges
What temperature should I store champagne at?
45–50°F (7–10°C) is ideal for serving.
Can I store other sparkling wines in a champagne fridge?
Yes — this range suits Prosecco, Cava, Crémant and other sparkling wines.
How should I position champagne bottles?
Short-term storage: upright is fine.
Long-term >5 years: store on the side and consider 50–55°F (10–13°C).
What is the difference between a wine fridge and a champagne fridge?
Champagne fridges have shelving designed for larger bottles and operate at slightly cooler ranges.
How do I avoid vibrations?
Choose units with anti-vibration systems, solid shelves and strong build quality.
Meat Agers
What is the ideal temperature for a meat ager?
Meat ages best at 34–38°F (1–3°C).
What humidity level is required?
Aim for 75–85% humidity plus strong airflow.
How long can I age meat?
Typical ageing is 21–45 days.
For stronger flavour: 45–60 days.
Intense ageing: 60–90+ days.
What meats can be aged?
Common cuts include beef (ribeye, sirloin), lamb and pork.
How do I clean my meat ager?
Unplug the unit, clean with mild detergent, keep airflow paths clear and avoid overloading shelves.
What are the benefits of dry-ageing?
Dry-ageing improves tenderness, concentrates flavour and enhances texture.
Still Need Help?
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