The right wine storage cooler is a must for any wine lover. Whether you are an amateur collector, a veteran connoisseur, or just love having good wine around, proper storage ensures that you will keep your wines at the proper temperature… and avoid having that great vintage you’ve been saving turn into vinegar!

So how do you know what you need? Here are a few basic tips for choosing a wine fridge that will work for you.

1. Capacity
How much wine do you intend to store at once? While it’s tempting to buy the biggest wine fridge (and start dreaming about all the wines you’ll collect to fill it), if you’re not likely to have more than ten bottles around at one time then a 75-bottle storage cooler is a waste of money and space. Figure on having a bit of extra room, say for between 5-10 bottles, over what you think you’ll store.

2. Location
Where do you want to keep your cooler? This may also determine the size you can get away with. If you want to install a wine fridge in your kitchen, for example, you’ll need to figure out how much room you can devote to it. If you want a unit in your basement, on the other hand, you likely have a lot more leeway in size. Take measurements, so you’re sure. This is especially important if you want to install your cooler in existing cabinetry.

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3. Noise
All wine storage coolers are going to make some noise. Some are quieter, and some are noisier, than others. If you want to keep it in a room you use often, then make sure the noise level is something you can live with. Look for a model that is designed to run quietly. If you’re keeping it out of the way, then noise level may not be a huge concern… but it’s still worth checking. You don’t want to get your cooler installed in the basement, and then find out that you can hear it humming in your living room!

4. Temperature Controls
Wine refrigerators come with either pre-set temperature controls, or a twin cooling system. If you are just getting started in wine collecting, or only have a few bottles around at a time, pre-set controls are all you really need. If you are a connoisseur, however, or intend to build an extensive collection, look for a twin cooling system. This type of wine cooler has two sections, each with its own temperature control. This allows you to set two different temperatures in the same unit. No matter which type you choose, make sure it has auto defrost, to prevent frost from building up on your wine bottles.

5. Efficiency
Finally, look for a wine storage cooler that has a high energy efficiency rating. Ratings go from A to G, with A being the most energy efficient. Since your cooler will be running all the time, choosing an efficient model will keep your utility bills down.

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