What Is The UK’s Best Wine Cooler?
In this guide we’ll look at the best wine coolers.
We’ve compared temperature control, noise level, energy efficiency and cost
to give you our top recommendations.
Wine Cooler Reviews
Wine Cooler Buyer’s Guide
If you’re seriously into your wines, and want to keep them in their ideal environmental conditions, then buying a wine cooler is the best solution. However, buying the right one can be confusing, here’s a few key points when considering your options:
Design
Wine coolers come in many sizes and configurations. Most fall into two categories; counter top or under counter, and are cooled by either a compressor or by thermoelectric cooling. Under counter are also more likely to have dual zone cooling; one area for reds, and one for whites or sparkling and dessert wines.
A compressor-cooled wine cooler is just like your regular fridge, which runs on liquid refrigerant. This type of cooler can get as low as 3˚C, but they can be noisy. Thermoelectric cooling is also more environmentally friendly – no CFCs as it runs on the Peltier effect, and is much quieter. However, it does have some limitations; won’t work if it’s too hot, can be limited to temperatures above 10˚C, 6˚C for more expensive models, and are more costly to buy.
Capacity
The more the merrier! Look for the wine coolers that can store at least a couple of dozen bottles, and of course; dual zone cooling is a definite bonus!
Low Noise
Unless you love rocking out to the loud hum of a fridge, then make sure your wine cooler has a low decibel reading.
Temperature Control
Some wines need specific temperature settings, having the ability to set this, and being able to adjust it if necessary, is an absolute essential! Make sure the control panel is easy to read, and able to be adjusted.
Energy Efficiency
Wine coolers run constantly, so to keep the environment greener and your energy bills down, make sure your prospective wine cooler has low energy consumption.
UV Glass for Solar Radiation Protection
UV light can also affect and degrade wine, so to protect your wine ensure your wine cooler has UV glass to best preserve your drinking investment.
FAQs
What is a wine cooler?
A wine cooler is more than just a booze-fridge. It’s a thermostatically and humidity controlled environment that preserves the integrity of your wine.
How does a wine cooler work?
Wine coolers work by harnessing the Peltier effect. This effect occurs when electricity meets, from two separate conductors, which then causes air to either be heated or cooled. A wine cooler creates a stabilised environment, using cooled air, to best preserve your wine’s flavour, colour, and complexity, all of which can have significant effects on wine in storage.