Is there anything better than sharing a glass of your favourite wine in the garden on a warm summer evening with friends? Probably not. But how can you truly enjoy it if the wine has gone warm? In the summer heat, wine can quickly lose its freshness and aromas, changing both its flavour and balance.
Translation | Amaryllis Tsegou
That’s why chilling it properly - before serving and while it’s on the table - makes all the difference. The good news? Keeping your wine at the right temperature doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are all the simple secrets to enjoy every sip perfectly chilled.
How to properly chill wine before serving
If you have a wine cooler, set it 1-2 degrees below the ideal serving temperature during the summer, as the higher temperatures will quickly warm the glass. If you don't have one, the fridge works just as well for sparkling, white, rosé and sweet wines that are best served between 6°C and 13°C.
For richer and fuller-bodied whites or rosés, you can leave them in the fridge for less time or take them out a little earlier to bring them to the right temperature before serving.
Reds, on the other hand, can also be refrigerated for a short time, so that they reach the ideal temperature of 15°C-18°C.
If you want a quick solution, there are special rapid cooling devices that can bring the bottle to the ideal temperature in 3-5 minutes, ideal for professional wineries and restaurants, but also for home when you have unexpected guests.
How to keep wine cool on the table
Once the bottle reaches the table, a champagne flute is the best ally for sparkling, white, rosé and sweet wines. Ideally, fill it with ice and water and place the bottle upright so that it is covered up to ¾ of its height. The ice-water ratio can be adjusted depending on how intense the cooling you want to keep it.
Remember: wine will not freeze properly with ice alone. On the contrary, water is also needed. For red wines, opt for a special jacket (ice bag) that hugs the bottle, so that it stays cool without freezing excessively.
What if the wine gets too cold?
Don't worry! Simply remove the jacket or take the bottle out of the champagne cooler and let it come to temperature. Once it returns to the ideal range, its true character reappears - ready to be savoured with good company and summer warmth all around.
Chilling wine properly isn’t just a small detail - it transforms the way you enjoy every sip. By following a few simple steps, you can preserve its aromas, flavours, and freshness, whether it’s sparkling, white, rosé, or red.
With the right temperature and a little care at the table, every glass becomes a true celebration of summer, friends, and good moments. So go ahead, pour, chill, and savour - it’s time to make every sip count.
