Sparkling wine storage question. Vertical or horizontal?

This has never come up before for me, since I have never bought sparkling wine by the case. I just did, and the info on the web seems to be conflicting. One site says on the side is fine, another says it will cause problems. I bought a case of a decent California methode champenoise, and while I figure I will be drunk within a few years, I do want it to keep. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks! champagne.gif

Hi Kevin,

First of all, in order to keep your bottle further in time, you have to respect the right storage conditions:

  • a cool and constant temperature (10-15°C)
  • a 60-70% humidity level
  • away from light, temperation variations, odours and vibrations

Then, to answer your question, there is no real difference in keeping your sparkling wine bottle “on it’s side” or “upright”.
The pressure inside the bottle allows the cork to remain wet and supple (so efficient), whether the bottle is on it’s side or upright. The latter is even considered optimal because there’s no contact between the wine and the cork: it prevents the cork to impart an unpleasant taste to the wine.

Hope this helps! :wink:

Thanks!