Wine Coolers, Beverage Centers and Accessories

Bottles, cans and zones: sizing the cooler

Stated capacity counts standard Bordeaux-style bottles, so wide Burgundy or sparkling bottles take more room than the number suggests. A single zone holds one temperature, which suits one style of wine; dual zones let reds and whites sit at different settings. Wine intended for long storage does best near 55°F (13°C), while serving temperatures vary by style. Beverage centers are rated in 12-ounce cans and suit soft drinks and beer.

Ventilation and cabinet fit for built-in coolers

Only models designed for built-in use are front-vented and can sit flush in cabinetry; freestanding units need clearance at the sides and back for airflow. Check the cabinet opening against the height, width and depth listed, allow for door swing, and confirm the door can be reversed if space is tight. Accessories here, such as acrylic wine buckets, iceless coolers and openers, need no installation, though buckets and sleeves should be checked against your bottle size.

Questions about Wine Coolers, Beverage Centers and Accessories

What temperature should a wine cooler be set to?

For storing wine long term, a steady temperature around 55°F (13°C) is the usual target. For serving, sparkling and white wines are usually served colder than reds. A dual-zone unit lets you hold both at their ideal settings.

How is a wine cooler different from a regular refrigerator?

A wine cooler is built to hold a steady, moderate temperature suited to wine, often with shelves shaped for bottles, whereas a refrigerator runs colder and drier and its door is opened constantly. For long storage the steadier conditions of a wine cooler are preferable.

What is an iceless wine cooler?

An iceless cooler keeps a bottle cold at the table without ice cubes. Some are double-walled holders that keep an already chilled bottle cool; others are sleeves or inserts you freeze ahead. It is a serving accessory, not a storage unit, and its opening must suit your bottle size.