As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that storing wine upright is not recommended. While it may seem convenient or space-saving, storing wine in an upright position can have negative effects on its quality over time.
One of the main reasons for storing wine horizontally is to keep the cork moist. When a bottle is stored on its side, the wine is in contact with the cork, which helps to keep it swollen and airtight. This is important because a dry cork can shrink and allow air to enter the bottle, which can lead to oxidation and spoilage of the wine.
When you store a bottle of wine upright, the cork is not in contact with the wine. Over time, the lack of moisture can cause the cork to dry out and lose its elasticity. A dry cork becomes more brittle and prone to cracking or breaking, which can result in leakage or premature oxidation of the wine.
Additionally, storing wine upright can potentially pop the cork prematurely. The pressure from the carbon dioxide gas in the bottle, which is a natural byproduct of the fermentation process, can build up and cause the cork to pop out. This can result in a loss of wine and can be quite messy if it happens unexpectedly.
I have personally experienced the negative consequences of storing wine upright. On one occasion, I stored a bottle of red wine upright for several months in a cabinet. When I finally opened it, I noticed that the wine had lost some of its vibrant color and developed an off-putting aroma. The taste was also affected, with the wine tasting dull and lacking the depth and complexity it should have had. It was a disappointing experience, and it made me realize the importance of proper wine storage.
To summarize, storing wine upright is not recommended due to the potential for premature cork popping, cork drying out, and loss of wine quality. It is best to store wine horizontally to ensure that the cork remains moist and the wine stays in optimal condition. So, if you want to preserve the quality and flavor of your wine, make sure to store it horizontally in a cool, dark, and humid environment.