Wine Cellar by John Seitz | Master Wine Cellar Builder

This home for your wine requires specific know-how to build.  When the time comes to consult with your contractor about your new cellar, you first must arm yourself with the right questions.  Ask how many climate controlled wine rooms have been built by the company. If the answer is “one or two…” you may want to opt for a company with more experience.   Because this is home to your prized collection and because cellars are a huge investment, you need someone that really knows what they are doing.

Building Materials

• Vapor & Moisture Barriers are imperative for a properly working wine cellar – if barriers are not installed properly (or not installed at all) you might as well continue storing wine under the bed.  These effect temperature, humidity, and prevent mold. You will need an insulated door with weather stripping all around.  It can be glass or wood, so long as it is insulated. “Racks” are the shelves that cradle your wine. Make sure the wood is of high quality to ensure that they are sturdy – so your wine doesn’t wind up crashing to the floor. Poke around with some casual questions; make sure your contractor has a grasp on the weight of a wine bottle.
  

Refrigeration Equipment

Some self-contained units are noisy and usually exhaust hot air into the adjacent room. Most cooling won’t increase humidity unless you add a humidifier. If you find you need more humidity, a simple mister might do.

Wine Cellar by John Seitz | Master Wine Cellar Builder

Note: If your cooling unit goes on the fritz, repair it locally or return it to the factory, they will send you a replacement. Time is of the essence, when wine rapidly changes temperature, it loses its agable qualities.

Insurance

Make sure that the contractor you hire provides insurance to cover repair work if mold develops.  Development of mold or mildew in your cellar is very serious and can damage the integrity of all of your wine, not just the bottles near the source.   If your cellar is built well the first time, it is unlikely that this will occur.

Hiring a contractor to build your cellar is a lot like choosing a therapist. If you are uncomfortable with the skill or knowledge level of your contractor when it comes to building a climate-controlled room, shop around. Thanks and may all your wines be GREAT!!!!

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John Seitz | Master Wine Cellar Builder, The Magnum Company Inc. | www.magnumcellars.net

Edited By: Stefanie Payne

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