What happens if wine is not stored properly?
Wine should ideally be stored at a temperature of 55 degrees and will ultimately fair better at slightly colder temperatures than warmer. The key to storing wine properly is the stability of the conditions. Fluctuation in temperature can damage wines and cause them to age prematurely. The wine will expand and contract creating conditions for seepage around the sides of the cork. When wine seeps out it creates a vacuum in the bottle that allows oxygen to be let in. This will cause the wine to oxidize. Also, a lack of humidity can cause corks to dry out, thus ensuring conditions for seepage to occur. Once oxygen comes in contact with the wine, the aging process is accelerated. That is why it is so important for wines to be cellared continuously at the correct temperature, with ample amounts of humidity, and with as little fluctuation in conditions as possible. More frequently than not, New York City apartments are far too warm for proper wine storage and house basements fluctuate in temp
