Importance of Wine Storage Humidity in Cellar Design

Maintaining proper humidity is a crucial but often overlooked aspect of wine cellar design. A relative humidity (RH) level between 50% and 70% is considered ideal for preserving wine, with 60% being the optimal level. Failing to maintain the right humidity can negatively impact wine quality.

• High Humidity (Above 70%): Excessive humidity can lead to mold growth and deterioration of labels and adhesives.
• Low Humidity (Below 50%): Corks may dry out, causing wine to evaporate and potentially degrade over time.

To prevent these issues, thoughtful planning is key. Here are some essential steps:

• Vapor Barrier Installation: Begin by installing a vapor barrier throughout the room. A minimum of 4 mil plastic should be used, with seams overlapped and taped. The vapor barrier should be placed on the outside (or warm side) of the cellar’s insulation to prevent condensation that could result in mold formation.

• Humidity Control: A cooling unit alone doesn’t regulate humidity; a humidifier is needed. The most effective solution is a humidifier integrated into the cooling unit, which helps distribute moisture evenly in the circulating air. Alternatively, a freestanding humidifier can be used in conjunction with a cooling system, provided it is controlled by a high-quality wall-mounted thermostat.

Note: Wine Guardian offers both freestanding and integrated humidifiers. Their freestanding model is compatible with any wine cellar cooling system and can even function independently of one.