This will cause the wine to oxidise, making the wine age prematurely. If this happens it will lose almost all its qualities before being transformed into vinegar. The normal way of ensuring the cork does not dry out it to keep the bottle horizontal for long periods as it matures, such as for 6 months. By being in constant contact with the wine the cork is kept damp. Light (whether solar or electric) and high temperatures are equally lethal, as constant exposure to light destroys the qualities of any wine. Less lethal but still harmful are unpleasant smells, closed atmospheres, noise, vibrations or sudden changes in temperature. So avoid kitchen cupboards and dining rooms at all costs. The ideal situation is a subterranean wine cellar, dark, damp and silent. But do not worry if you do not have one. By taking precautions, we can fit out a place to store your precious treasure. Check that the room has the necessary ventilation vent or open one up by, for example, drilling several holes in the door. Arm yourself with a thermometer (preferably one that reads both maximum and minimum temperatures) and get ready to monitor the changes in temperature at different times of the year. read more