The general rule for wine temperatures is to serve white wines chilled and red wines at room temperature. The rule is generic in terms of how warm room temperature is and how cold the fridge is. Storing bottles of wines at the wrong temperature can damage the contents.
Fridge Temperature
Most refrigerators cool between 35 and 39 degrees Fahrenheit, which is too cold for most white wines. The wine will lose flavor if it is too cold. Champagne and dry white wine should ideally be stored at around 45 degrees F. Sparkling and sweet wines should be chilled between 41 and 45 degrees.
Room Temperature
Red wines can be chilled before serving. An hour in the fridge will not take the taste away from a red, particularly a Beaujolais or Pinot Noir. Actual room temperature is too warm and the fruit flavors in the wine will be dulled. Red wines should ideally be served between 57 and 64 degrees Fahrenheit.
Storage
The ideal storage temperature for all wines is 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature will not damage the wines and the bottles can be chilled for around two hours before serving. Wines are best stored in cooler temperatures as it warms when served in the glass.
Tags: between degrees, degrees Fahrenheit, room temperature, before serving, between degrees Fahrenheit
