Humidity is necessary for good wine conservation. It needs to be constant and around 70%. A higher ambient humidity may cause degradation of the bottle labels over time and lower humidity will adversely affect the cork of the bottle. A good humidity control system is advised for the serious wine collection.

 

Avoid neon lighting at all costs. This type of lighting goes through the tinted glass of the bottle and adversely affects the wine. In addition bottles should be kept away from all windows as natural lighting also is detrimental to the wine. Traditional light bulbs are recommended. A dimmer at the entrance of the wine cellar allows for desired control of cellar lighting. 

 

The ideal temperature is 52 degrees Fahrenheit. Sudden, severe temperature fluctuations are the single most detrimental factor in wine conservation. Unlike other racking systems, i.e. wooden, metal, etc., Vinicase and VR Professionnel systems offer a thermal mass which significantly helps reduce temperature shock. The thermal mass properties of these products maintain a consistent temperature longer and better than other materials. In addition, these systems allow for reversed stacking which insulates the most susceptible part of the bottle--the neck.

 

Wine is best conserved in a minimal vibration environment. This allows the wine to settle without external interruption. Again, the mass and density inherent in the stone-based Vinicase and

VR Professionnel systems help to create the most stable housing for your wine. 

 

When using a temperature control system, a wine cellar must be well insulated. Hot water and heating pipes should be insulated. Cellar doors, specifically made for such rooms, should be installed and their joints and thresholds insulated so as to form a seal. All walls, ceilings, and in some cases floors, should be insulated with the highest r-value insulation on the market. Consult your contractor on these matters before having the racking system installed as it may impact on the dimensions of your room.