Blog Post

There are a number of important factors and tips that you need to bear in mind when it comes to building a wine cellar in your residence.

According to a 2016 Wine Institute study, the average American drinks nearly 3 gallons of wine making the USA the largest wine consuming nation per capita. With stats like these there's a good chance you enjoy a glass at least on occasion or if you're a serious wine enthusiast maybe you're even considering on building your own in-home wine cellar. If the latter sounds more like you, there are a number of important factors and best practices that you need to bear in mind when it comes to building a wine cellar in your residence. A successful execution can contribute towards the value of your property, however, a poorly done job can possibly have the reverse effect so plan carefully.

Purpose of Your Wine Cellar

Not all people construct wine cellars for the same reason. Before you charge into action with building an in-home wine cellar, you need to decide how you plan on using it -- not just for the holidays but going forward into the future as well. For example, will the primary purpose of your wine cellar be strictly for storage? To showcase your amazing collection? Or both? Do you want the cellar to also double as a space for entertaining guests? Answering these questions will help you make the more specific and tactical decisions to bring your dream wine cellar to life.

Location of Your Wine Cellar

The term cellar indicates it will be built in your basement. This makes sense as the climate and other environmental qualities of a basement make it a common and strategic location for your wine cellar. However, in the grand scheme of things, you can pretty much put a wine cellar anywhere so focus on your needs and what space can be made available in your residence, respectively. For example, some choose to convert a closet or a space under the stairs into a wine cellar. Most importantly, when considering the location, bear in mind that the optimal temperature for a wine cellar is 55°F with an associated 60 percent relative humidity. Although these are the preferred temperature and humidity conditions, it's not a total deal breaker if the space varies a little from these ideal settings.

Size of Your Wine Cellar

Four primary factors come into consideration in determining the size of your wine cellar. These are:

• available space in your home
• amount of wine you want to store
• other activities that will occur in space
• budget

Assuming this is your very first time, try to be mindful not to go overboard (a la the Homer Simpson Car). If you're afraid of making the leap, maybe at first consider piloting this intended space as a makeshift cellar starting with a small number of bottles and simulating your intended use of the space for a couple weeks. If this exercise further piques your interest then you'll have a better sense of assurance that committing and converting the space into a dedicated wine cellar is the move.

Proper Cooling System

As mentioned previously, the ideal climate for a wine cellar is a temperature of 55° F and a relative humidity of about 60 percent. If your wine cellar will be located in a space that has a similar climate, you'll have an easier task of making the adustments to reach these ideal conditions. If the space is not as accommodating by default then a proper cooling system will be critical in creating the environment optimal for storing wine. The size and type of cooling system will largely depend on the intended size of your wine cellar. For more elaborate and larger spaces, consider seeking advice and an assessment from a qualified wine cellar HVAC professional to make a recommendation on specific models. Remember that the cooling system is the heart of your wine cellar ensuring that your wine is properly cooled, matures gracefully, and retains quality/value.

Vapor Barrier

On a related note, you may need to consider the necessity of what is known as a vapor barrier. When properly installed, a vapor barrier prevents unnecessary and potentially damaging moisture from forming inside the walls of your wine cellar. The type of vapor barrier will depend on the insulation used within the wine cellar. If you're using common fiberglass or rigid foam insulation, you will need to wrap the walls and ceiling with a poly vapor barrier. This will ensure that the wine cellar is completely sealed. If you're using a basement location, you should consider special flooring options that prevent mold growth and contributes towards the ideal cool and humid environment.

Wine Cellar Door

The type of door you install on your wine cellar is another important consideration. You absolutely must have a door that seals completely in order to effectively contain and control the climate inside the cellar. In addition, if you intend for your wine cellar to be more than just a place for storage, you will want to contemplate more stylized options that enhance the appearance of the space itself. If you're planning to make the wine cellar a showcase space or a place to entertain then consider choosing wrought iron and glass doors as they not only facilitate proper sealing of the space but they also add a sense of elegance and style. Prefabricated wrought iron and glass doors are available and can also be custom ordered to fit your exact dimensions and desired style.

Wine Racks

There are generally two options available when it comes to wine racks for your cellar - prefabricated wine racks or custom made wineracks. Generally speaking, determining whether to purchase wine racks "off the rack" versus having them custom made is primarily a budgetary consideration. If cost and time is of no issue then hey, opt for splurging on a super custom wine rack kit made of your ideal materials and finishes. Otherwise, there are plenty of premade styles and price points and you should be able to find one that works.

Professional Assistance

Again, if this is your first time then professional assistance is strongly recommended especially if you plan on making structural changes and when it comes to installing the cooling components. There are professionals with experience in all aspects of constructing and outfitting a residential wine cellar and it may be cheaper to hire their services then dealing with repairs/renovations due to a shoddy DIY job - better nice than twice! These professionals can help develop a blueprint for your wine cellar or they can take your vision and turn it into a reality all while being mindful of factors that go beyond just look and feel. If you live in a relatively major city then wine cellar construction and installation specialists should be a simple google search away.

Decorating Your Wine Cellar

Although your wine cellar should be professionally constructed, furnishing and decorating is something that most people can and do undertake as a do-it-yourself project. As is the case with most interior design projects, you can truly imprint your own sense of style to the room. Some choose a more classic look decorating the wine cellar to replicate styles from centuries ago. At the opposite end of the spectrum, others select an interior design that exudes a more sleek and modern feel. When decorating your wine cellar make certain that the focus remains on the wine itself. The decorations should be selected in a manner that visually celebrates the wine and doesn't make it a secondary element of the space.

---

If done right, this wine cellar can become the part of your home that evokes a true sense of pride as well as legitimately contribute to the property value. Follow these best practices and you should end up with a space that is much more than just a spot to store wine.