I've now lived with my wine cellar for two years. This project came about like so many renovations at home where I start out deciding that we will watch the budget and really pay attention to the builder. Reminds me of the stone wall built this past year that led to a custom pizza oven. So as things go the renovation to our lower family room was to simply be a new ceiling which led to a complete remodeling with mini kitchen, home entertainment area, new floor etc. etc. Came out really nice and is very durable as it has withstood so many parties.
The contractor was well under way when I said what if he could put in some wine racks in the corner? I have collected some wines through the years and always was concerned about cellaring and proper temperatures as some vintage wines spoiled with improper keeping. So I did some research and really found out that temperature and humidity are key and to keep these two fundamentals as constant as possible. I still struggle with humidity. The project gets researched and I learn that if I am going to do this right the already 400 bottles i had should be stored more appropriately or start drinking faster. I contact Vintage Makers in NH for some consultation. Most of this done by phone and email and I am off to the races. Contractor is now pushing as his envelope is closing and an insulated room (mini house) is to be built within our home and family room. We pick out tile to customize the floor, learn that it will be air conditioned to 55 degrees and 1600 bottles will find a new home or should I say if i buy that many. Now having gone this far I should tell you I am far from an expert. I like wine; my tastes vary every so often; and I enjoy what I enjoy. I can't remember the names of French and Italians and think it's hilarious when I'm around those who are in the "know." Christ I say if its good it's good and no I can't taste the plumbs and the berry But I do know good wine and I'm really liking pinot noir right now. Back to the wine cellar and this once simple solution to storage has a tasting table, wine refrigerator, storage for 1600 bottles (now holding 1200), and an area that attracts family and friends like the kitchen at Christmas. It is simple to operate and to the point I would call maintenance free. Do I think it's lavish ....yes. Do not I think it increases the value of our home.....no! But I do believe that when the time comes to sell there will be that one difference between our home and the next person's. www.vinagemakers.com. read more