Wine refrigerators: how to choose a wine refrigerator + the best models and manufacturers
Recently, in addition to conventional types of household appliances, specialized options have also gained popularity.Such devices include a wine refrigerator - a compact unit that imitates the conditions of wine cellars, which makes it possible to fully enjoy the taste and aroma of a noble drink.
Have you thought about buying a wine cabinet, but are having difficulty choosing the right equipment? In order not to be disappointed in the purchase, you need to decide in advance on the basic parameters of the refrigerator and evaluate the features of different types of equipment. Our article is devoted to solving these issues.
We have described in detail the variety of wine cabinets on the market and outlined the main criteria for their selection. In addition, we provided an overview of the best manufacturers of cooling units, and also prepared a rating of the most popular models of specialized refrigerators.
The content of the article:
Purpose and use of wine cabinets
Refrigerators of this type simultaneously perform a number of functions necessary for proper storage of bottles. They are primarily used to cool drinks.
The operating mode may be different: for long-term storage of containers in the chamber, it is recommended to maintain a temperature of 10-12°C. If the wine is planned to be served, it is kept in the range from 8°C to 16°C, depending on the brand.
The refrigeration unit has created conditions for horizontal storage. This is especially important when using wooden plugs: when wet, they become airtight and do not let air through, which spoils the contents.
Vessels with plastic stoppers are not so demanding: they can be placed vertically.
An important function is protection against UV radiation, which accelerates chemical processes, causing wine spoilage. To prevent the entry of aggressive rays, wine cabinets usually have opaque doors or UV-resistant tinted glass display cases.
The design features of the technology also make it possible to protect the bottles from vibration, due to which sedimentation may increase in them. This option is especially relevant if drinks are planned to be stored for a long period.
When choosing a refrigerator, a number of factors are taken into account, including technical characteristics, installation features, dimensions and other criteria.
Classification by installation type
All household appliances intended for storing wine can be divided into three groups, characterizing the installation option.
Freestanding refrigeration units
The models are located autonomously at some distance from other furniture and appliances. The cooling system in this case may be located on the side surfaces or at the rear wall.
In the first case, the device looks more advantageous, but a possible leak can ruin it hopelessly, since repairs in such a situation are difficult and sometimes impossible.
A simple and less expensive solution is a device with a radiator at the rear panel. Since this unit is quite vulnerable, special care must be taken during transportation.
Built-in equipment models
Built-in modifications are in high demand, despite their higher cost. The range includes both compact products that can be placed under the countertop, and large ones that allow you to store hundreds of bottles.
As a rule, cabinets of this type are equipped with grilles at the bottom, behind which cooling radiators and fans are located to evenly distribute air flow.The most expensive options also have a heat removal system.
Bottle storage displays
Compact devices designed for placement on walls. Thanks to the minimum depth and small parameters of the mounting plate, they can be conveniently installed even in limited space.
There are two types of showcases:
- neutral — the design does not include components responsible for lowering the temperature;
- refrigerated — equipped with a silent ventilated freezing system, as well as an automatic defrosting option.
The first option is used for decorative and presentation purposes, the second is perfect even for long-term storage of a small collection of bottles.
Cooling technologies used
To cool drinks, various methods of lowering the temperature can be used, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Absorption system
It is based on chemical reactions accompanied by the release/absorption of heat energy.
Since there are no moving mechanical parts involved, the device operates without noise or vibration. If necessary, it can even be installed in the bedroom.
The disadvantages of such models include significant electricity consumption and high cost.In addition, due to the use of ammonia and other unsafe elements in the system, the equipment requires increased attention.
Compressor technology
Today the most common system used in wine cabinets. The devices operate in the same way refrigerator operation traditional type. The gas is compressed by a compressor, releasing heat, and then expands again, absorbing thermal energy.
Compressors can be used in both built-in and free-standing equipment. Despite the economical use of energy consumption, they perfectly maintain the set temperature.
Among the disadvantages, we can note some noise, the level of which is indicated in the instructions supplied with the model. Before purchasing, you should carefully check the tightness of the device and the quality of the compressor, since these factors directly affect the service life.
Thermoelectric or electronic system
Devices using this technology belong to the most budget-friendly group of products. To lower the temperature, they use Peltier elements - plates that, when voltage is applied to them, heat up on one side and cool on the other.
Refrigerators of this type have a number of valuable advantages: small size, lack of vibration, affordable cost.
The main disadvantage of such models is the impossibility of embedding.In addition, the design of the equipment, as a rule, assumes the presence of a fan, the operation of which is associated with a certain noise. Its level is especially high in inexpensive modifications, while the operation of elite options is almost silent.
Dimensions, design and additional functions
Various wine cooler models may have additional equipment and/or features.
Useful options:
- display;
- remote control;
- air circulation system;
- control of cooling zones;
- heating option;
- humidity control;
- locks and accessories.
A digital screen is often installed on the front wall of the cabinet, informing about the temperature and humidity of the chamber. Usually there are mechanical or touch buttons for settings here.
Some modifications provide remote control. In this case, the kit includes a remote control, which is used to regulate the operation of the device.
Specialized refrigerators may have a different number of temperature zones. Dual-zone devices are especially in demand, since they maintain ideal conditions for storing two types of drinks.
They provide a section for white wines and champagne with a temperature of 6°C, as well as a compartment for rich red wines at 16-18°C. It is important to consider that the presence of an additional compartment for cooling reduces internal space and significantly increases the cost of the model.
Multi-zone devices have a simpler design. They are characterized by a single space in which a vertical temperature change is provided: at the bottom it is lower than at the top. The spread of indicators in such options is usually 3-6°C.
For faster and more uniform cooling, a fan is sometimes installed in the working chamber. By definition, it is absent in multi-zone refrigerators, where temperature differences are important.
Most wine coolers are designed for cooling purposes only. However, there are modifications equipped with a heating function - “winter mode”. Such devices can be left without fear in unheated rooms, for example, in a country house or in a storage room.
In budget options, a constant content of water vapor is automatically maintained, the value of which varies in the range of 50-80%. Expensive units are usually equipped with special systems that allow you to independently set the humidity level.
In addition to the above factors, wine refrigerators may be equipped with additional devices and accessories, such as locks that prevent unauthorized access, UV protection screens, carbon filters, and lava stones.
As for dimensions, manufacturers offer a variety of parameters.Devices for private owners, designed to store several dozen bottles, usually have rather modest dimensions.
Industrial units for bars and other establishments have impressive dimensions, which makes it possible to store batches of various drinks in them.
Since wine storage units are considered luxury items, manufacturers pay special attention to the design of the models.
They are made from metal, wood, tinted and mirror glass. Often devices are decorated with carvings, forged elements, leather, and mosaics, which gives them a luxurious appearance.
Review of the best manufacturers
Among the largest companies producing refrigeration equipment for storing wine, there are five clear favorites.
EuroCave wine cabinets
The famous French company, whose founder Rene Martin proposed the concept of special devices that simulate the conditions of wine cellars, and launched their production.
Currently in the catalog EuroCave More than five hundred models of household appliances are presented, the assembly of which is carried out in the town of Fourmy, located in northern France, the historical homeland of the brand.
Most of the options offered relate to multi-zone cabinets, the temperature of which varies uniformly in height from 7 to 20°C, which allows you to simultaneously store champagne, white, rose, and red wines on the shelves.
The collections offer free-standing and built-in appliances, made primarily in a classic design.
Wine storage devices from Dometic
The Swedish company is a well-known manufacturer of wine cabinets. The company developed and patented absorption cooling technology.
Due to the absence of noise and vibration, it is widely used for long-term storage of various brands of noble drinks.
Household appliances from Domestic is of high quality. It is characterized by effective protection against UV radiation, excellent air circulation, and reliable maintenance of temperature and humidity.
Democratic equipment from Caso
Devices produced by the brand Caso (Germany), found recognition among different categories of users. The company's assortment includes models at affordable prices that are quite accessible to representatives of the middle class.
All Caso lines are characterized by traditional German quality, ease of operation, and long service life.Excellent design in a classic style makes it easy to fit the equipment into any interior, and its varied dimensions make it possible to use it both at home and in bars, cafes, and restaurants.
Despite its relative youth, the Hungarian company Dunavox managed to attract the attention of connoisseurs and collectors of branded drinks thanks to a large assortment of conventional and built-in models.
The company's products are distinguished by the ideal combination of budget price and excellent technical characteristics. The high quality of refrigerators is confirmed by the three-year warranty period provided by the company.
Design equipment Ip Industrie
Since the appearance of the product plays an important role when choosing devices for storing wine, it is necessary to mention the Italian company IP Industry. Its original and beautiful products are in great demand in different countries of the world.
In the production of elite models, exclusively natural materials are used, for example, leather and wood of various species. Designers offer bright, bold solutions, thanks to which Ip Industie equipment becomes the center of the interior.
Exquisite design is combined with excellent performance characteristics: modern technologies and scientific developments of scientists are widely used in the manufacture of products.
Options from well-known German manufacturers also differ in excellent quality. Libherr And Miele, French professional line La Sommeliere, products from a Chinese manufacturer Cold Vine.
Rating of the best wine cabinets on the market
Experts advise paying attention to the best models from renowned manufacturers in the field of cooling equipment.
Place #1 - Liebherr UWKes1752
The refrigeration equipment of the German company is famous for its durability, reliability, and ease of use. All these properties are also typical for the UWKes1752GrandCru wine cabinet, which is mounted under the countertop.
The total volume of the Liebherr UWKes1752 device is 110 liters. The inner compartment contains four shelves; three of them extend on telescopic rods.
All metal parts are coated with a special compound SmartSteel. It increases the surface's resistance to mechanical damage and makes cleaning easier.
Temperature parameters are set on the control panel equipped with a display Magic Eye. Intelligent regulation allows you to save selected parameters regardless of the ambient temperature. An activated carbon filter is used for optimal air quality.
The compartment is illuminated using LEDs with minimal heating, so the lamps can be left on for a long time without causing the slightest harm to the drinks.
Place #2 – Climadiff Dopiovino/1
Compact model for different types of wine. It provides two zones with independent cooling, where you can store 21 bottles at the same time.
The operation is based on the Peltier principle, which guarantees silent operation and reliable temperature setting. Each compartment of Climadiff Dopiovino/1 has autonomous control with touch buttons. They respond easily to touch and do not lose sensitivity over time.
The device is different elegant appearance: The metal body is complemented by a tempered glass door with a mirror effect, which provides reliable UV protection.
There are two shelves in the upper compartment of the refrigerator, and four shelves in the lower compartment, made of natural wood. If necessary, they can be easily removed for cleaning and washing.
The product is equipped with four adjustable legs, which allows you to install it even on an uneven surface. The kit includes removable handles, which can be connected to the facade if desired.
Place #3 – Caso WineDuett 12
This impressive compact modelmade of metal, there is always a place in the kitchen, dining room or other room. The dark sides and glass door add special elegance to the cabinet.
The refrigerator has one compartment divided into two working zones, each of which has a specific temperature range. Settings are made using mechanical buttons installed on the panel. The capacity of the chamber, divided by four durable wooden shelves, is 12 standard bottles.
Thermoelectric unit Caso WineDuett 12 belongs to the climate class SN, which allows it to be installed in rooms where the temperature varies from 10 to 31 °C.
This miniature device there is a place even in the smallest apartment - in a niche or on a countertop.Made in a noble black color, it amazes with its stylish design: the glass facade is enclosed in a plastic frame with a comfortable handle.
The operating principle is based on a Peltier board: a fan is provided to distribute air evenly throughout the compartment.
A small one is used for control. display, which allows you to control operation and set settings. Inside the compartment there are slightly curved chrome shelves where you can put both standard bottles of Bordeaux and large containers of champagne.
Place #5 – Cold Vine C16-TBF1
Single-chamber compact minibar made of black metal. Designed for cooling and storing 16 wine bottles. The total volume of the wine refrigerator is 46 liters, the width/depth/height dimensions are 43x51x50 cm. The model weighs only 15 kg.
The miniature wine refrigerator is equipped with electronically controlled, there is a panel with indicators of operating parameters. Inside the working chamber, the temperature background is maintained at the same level.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Video presentation of models of household wine refrigerators and options for their placement in kitchens and dining rooms:
Specialized wine cabinets can be an excellent addition to a standard set of household appliances. Such devices, combining functionality with a spectacular appearance, are a real decoration of the interior.
Depending on their size, they can be used as a bar, to display collections, or to accommodate wholesale quantities of bottles.
Looking for a refrigerator to store wine? Or do you have experience using this technique? Tell our readers about the specifics of choosing, operating and maintaining such units.Share your personal experiences, participate in discussions and ask questions - the comment form is located below.
For me, a wine refrigerator is, first of all, a decorative element, and not a household appliance, so I personally have high demands on the design.
For white wine the temperature should be lower, for red wine it should be at room temperature. I think it’s best to take a two-section small refrigerator that matches the color of the interior) It would be desirable for it to have a wide range of temperature adjustments, but it’s up to everyone’s preference.
Honestly, we've never had a need for wine refrigerators. Friends periodically bring us expensive wines from other countries, but my husband and I never even thought about storing it. The closed ones always stand in the sideboard, and we put the open ones in a regular refrigerator. Perhaps, if we expand our wine collection, we will purchase this thing, but for now it is a rather expensive and unnecessary element of household appliances for us.
It is clear that not everyone needs such refrigerators. But storing expensive wines in a sideboard, as you write, is a mockery. Wine requires a certain temperature and humidity.
Hello. The storage temperature for dry wine is usually 10-12 °C, dessert wines - 14-16 °C, without exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which triggers oxidation processes.
When temperature standards are violated, the properties and quality of wines change and deteriorate. Temperature storage conditions in the sideboard and refrigerator do not meet the specified standards.
Now let’s estimate how many weeks the wine is stored at the supplier, how many months it sits on the seller’s shelf, and how many days you will keep it at your place...