How do you keep sparkling wine in the cellar?

Soon the holidays are coming and we will all have some bubbles in the cellar to froth with friends. For Italians, sparkling wine is becoming one of the most consumed and sought after products, so much so that many wineries have decided to move towards the production of these wines, even starting from grapes normally used as still wines. Then the tradition of our country is charged with important realities from suitable territories that are offering more than satisfactory results on national and international markets. Above all, Prosecco, which has become synonymous with Italian sparkling wine in the world. Then Franciacorta and Trento DOC. But we must not forget the Oltrepò Pavese Pinot Noir area and the many southern producers who are giving the consumer wines of

Standing or lying down? The pressure and CO2 they contain allow us to keep them standing for a maximum period of one year because the cap does not tend to dry out anyway. But don't do it for long refinements. If you don't use them right away and want to experience intoxication or risk aging in your cellar. Then it is best to place them in a lying position to keep the cap wet. The best solution would be to place them upside down on the pupitres, the famous wooden easels used for removals. But it's not for everyone to have them in the cellar!

Temperature? Do not leave them in the kitchen above a piece of furniture, in the heat and in the scents (for the wine smells) of your home. Keep them in the cellar at a temperature of 10 — 12°C. Avoid excessive temperature changes. Humidity? Minimum limit 50%, maximum 70%.

Let's avoid intruders like cold cuts and cheeses in the cellar. We may have some nasty surprises at the time of the tasting. Unexpected lactic sensations, smells of muffette that leave you speechless. And we can't blame those who thought of wine with their heart!

Fabio De Vecchi