A few refrigerator basics to keep your collection in perfect condition

By Robert Rees

How to Help Wine Survive in Singapore

Singapore’s heat and humidity can play havoc not just with wine quality, but with your storage equipment.

Call me deeply suspicious of technology, but I think it’s best to get your fridges serviced every 12 months. Bear in mind that most guarantees usually only cover the first 12 months; given the cost of wines here, though, it’s best to get a fridge checked out regularly.

I also warn, from bitter experience, against buying second-hand fridges. Be sure when you are setting up your new fridge to let it run for at least 48 hours before filling it with your favourite drops. Make sure, too, that the golf clubs, kids’ toys and last season’s Chinese New Year decorations aren’t jammed in alongside the fridge: it will need at least 10cm of space all the way around to function best. If water is dripping down the glass on the on the inside of the fridge, this may well be the reason why. Fridges, like wine, need room to breathe.

Another option for your longer-term cellaring needs is to place your wines into professional storage, where rates can be as low as 30 cents per bottle per month.

At the end of the day, wine was meant to be drunk; so store it well, but not for too long. Choose a good brand and have a great time collecting.

For recommendations on wine fridges and professional storage,
email  Robert Rees at robert@wineexchangeasia.com.