Get ready to sip on this: Starting a wine cellar isn’t just about storage—it’s about curating a collection that tells your story. With 60 bottles, the challenge is balancing immediate pleasure with long-term potential. Here’s how to avoid the rookie mistakes and build a cellar that evolves with you.
The first step is mastering the ratio game. A smart approach splits your collection into three tiers: 50% for aging (think reds from Burgundy or Barolo), 30% for immediate enjoyment (lighter whites or bold Zinfandels), and 20% for whites or sparkling to add contrast. This mix ensures you’re never stuck with a bottle that’s too young or too old. But don’t lean too heavily on one region—overcommitting to Bordeaux or Napa can feel like a gamble. Instead, diversify by country, vintage, and grape varietal to keep things interesting.
Avoid the trap of “buying everything at once.” A full cellar without a plan risks becoming a warehouse of forgotten bottles. Instead, treat it like a living portfolio. Start small, let a few bottles mature, and gradually expand. If you’re unsure where to begin, look for curated services that tailor selections to your taste. These platforms often send samples, analyze your preferences, and deliver a mix of wines for aging and drinking. It’s like having a sommelier in your pocket—no need to guess.
Tools matter
Questions & Answers
Quel type de vin choisir pour une cave débutante ?
Privilégiez des vins faciles à déguster : rouges fruités, blancs secs ou rosés. Ils s’accordent avec la plupart des repas et se marient bien avec les fromages.
Comment ranger mes bouteilles dans la cave ?
Placez-les debout, en rangées, pour préserver le col. Évitez les courants d’air et maintenez une température stable entre 12°C et 18°C.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
