Becoming a wine connoisseur is about a lot more than just tasting, drinking and choosing your favorites. One of the important points to consider is how you’re going to store any open, unfinished wine.
If you’re planning on storing more than one bottle of wine at a time, you should consider investing in a dual-zone wine cooler. Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you and narrowed the available wine coolers down to 12 favorites.
Additionally, we’ve included a handy buyer’s guide to help you identify the features you should consider when shortlisting potential options. Why can’t you store wine in your kitchen fridge? Do you store red and white wine at the same temperature? Keep reading to find all the answers you need!
Quick Summary
- Best Overall: NewAir Wine Cooler
- Best Quality: NutriChef 24-Bottle Wine Cooler
- Best Capacity: Allavino Wine Cooler
- Best Customizable Option: Aobosi Dual-Zone Wine Cooler
- Best Built-In Wine Cellars: Kalamera Dual-Zone Wine Fridge
Why You Shouldn’t Store Wine in Your Kitchen Fridge
There are several reasons why you shouldn’t store wine in your kitchen fridge. For starters, keeping the bottle upright in the fridge will cause the cork to dry out. When this happens, the cork shrinks and air slips into the bottle. This not only affects the tannins but creates a bitter taste.
To maintain the original taste and quality of your wine, it should be stored laying on its side. When this happens, the cork stays in contact with the wine and remains moist. With no air able to get into the bottle, the tannins and flavor remain the same.
Another crucial factor to consider about wine storage is the temperature required. Kitchen fridges also often don’t have the right temperature for your different wine types. We’ll cover this more extensively in our buyer’s guide.
What is a Dual-Zone Wine Cooler?
If you’re going to be storing different types of wine, the best storage option will be a dual-zone wine cooler. This type of refrigerator is equipped with two different and independently temperature-controlled spaces.
A refrigerator with this type of feature allows you to store red and white wines at their respective serving temperatures. Storing your wine in this way will preserve the quality and tannins of your wine. Proper storage will ensure your wine only improves with age and you aren’t left with a bad tasting wine!
What to Consider When Buying a Dual-Zone Wine Cooler?
While the majority of wine coolers may have similar designs and functions, it should go without saying that they aren’t all the same.
There are various specifications and features to consider before making your final choice. The more prominent features you should consider include the following:
Zones
The first point you should consider is how you intend using the cooler. Will it be for long-term storage (as a collector or connoisseur) or do you simply need storage for short-term drinking and serving? Will you be storing red or white wines or a combination of both?
Zones options include the following:
- Single-temperature zone: Keeps your cooler at one temperature. Ideal for one type of wine. Either red or white.
- Dual-temperature zone: If you want to store both red and white wine, this is the option to consider. Red wine can be stored at a temperature different from your white choices. The fridges on our review list are all dual-temperature coolers. Some dual-zone models can successfully chill reds, whites and sparkling wines at their proper temperatures.
- Triple-temperature zone: This option features three separate cooling zones. Here you’ll be able to chill reds, whites and champagnes at different temperatures.
Type
The second important point to consider is the type of cooler. Two main types of cooler choices are:
- Compressor-based wine cooler: This type of cooler works similarly to your kitchen fridge. Cold air is created inside the cooler and hot air is expelled. The liquid refrigerant is circulated through a compressor system. Experts advise that this type is considerably better for wine storage. They’re also more energy-efficient.
- Thermoelectric wine cooler: A heat flux is created by transferring heat across the whole appliance. Small fans inside the cooler improve ventilation but make a considerable amount of vibration and a lot of noise, which you don’t want!
Capacity
Third on our list of options to consider is the number of wines you’re planning to store. Will it only be a few bottles for the occasional dinner party? Will it be the start of your collection? How many bottles can the wine cooler hold?
Always check the maximum number of bottles that the cooler can store at one time. Consider the fact that not all bottles are the same size.
Available Space
It’s important to consider where in your home you’re intending to place the cooler. How much space do you have available? Consider the amount of ventilation you have in the room, so you can get a cooler that works in that scenario. Consider the following:
- Countertop wine cooler: If you have a small space available, a countertop cooler can work. Bear in mind that you can only store 6 – 12 bottles.
- Built-in wine cooler: These coolers are smaller and can be placed in cabinets or under kitchen counters. For this type, ensure you have adequate ventilation to avoid overheating.
- Freestanding wine cooler: Integrated venting allows a freestanding wine cooler to be placed anywhere in your home except under any counters.
- Integrated wine cooler: If you’re planning to remodel your kitchen and are a serious wine enthusiast, this option is built into your new kitchen. Ideal for serious wine collectors!
Temperature
Storing both reds and whites requires a dual-zone cooler with two different temperature settings. If you’re going to store both red and white wine, consider the following temperature guide:
- Red wine: Since red wine has many variables concerning their different tannins, the recommended temperature should range between 50°F – 68° A tip here is to store fuller-bodied wines warmer than crispy light-bodied wines. The fruitier light options are always best-served cooler.
- White wine: It’s a well-known fact that white wine should always be stored at a cooler temperature than red wine. The usual recommendation is anywhere between 49°F – 55°
Glass Doors with UV Resistant Features
Another reason why it’s better to store a wine collection in a wine cooler as opposed to an open wine rack has to do with the sun. If your wine is stored where the bottles are exposed to direct sunlight, the UV rays can be quite harmful.
UV rays penetrate the wine bottles and damage the tannins. In turn, this leads to a difference in flavor as well as in the aroma. Top-of-the-range wine coolers will always have UV-resistant glass doors to keep the UV rays from coming in contact with your wine.
Best Dual-Zone Wine Cooler
1. Best Overall: NewAir Wine Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 116 bottles
- Space: Freestanding or built-in
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 5” x 26.8” x 56”
- Cost: $$$
The NewAir Wine Cooler is our Best Overall option because it stores a reasonable amount of wine bottles, has a sleek design and is compact enough to fit under any kitchen counter. With the front venting feature, you can easily fit this unit into existing kitchen cabinets. A slide rail system makes accessing your collection quick and simple.
Since the upper section of the cooler can reach a maximum temperature of 66°F, it’s ideal for lighter, crispier white wines. Warmer red wines can easily be stored on the bottom shelf with a maximum of 50°F.
Pros
Cons
2. Best Quality: NutriChef 24-Bottle Wine Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 24 bottles
- Space: Freestanding
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 20” x 19.3” x 31.4”
- Cost: $
You might ordinarily associate this brand name with a few other kitchen appliances. NutriChef has stepped into the wine cooler category and provides a stylish, top-notch product. With a capacity of 24 bottles, it can fit an average collection for both long and short-term storage.
Easy-to-use touch controls make this one of the best cooler options. Stainless steel finish and a tempered glass door protect your wine from the damaging rays of the sun. As a freestanding unit, it’ll easily fit into any space!
Pros
Cons
3. Best Capacity: Allavino Wine Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 172 bottles
- Space: Freestanding or built-in
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 27” x 23.5” x 71.5”
- Cost: $$$
If you intend is to start a considerably large wine collection, your shortlist needs to include this unit from Allavino. As a freestanding, tall, slender unit it can easily fit in a narrow space in your kitchen or pantry.
An advantage of this unit is that you can choose a matte black or stainless steel finish to accentuate your current kitchen décor. With a solid build, it boasts 12 shelves each capable of storing 11 regular wine bottles.
Shelves are made of slats that can easily cradle and support wine bottles without disrupting the sediment. If you don’t have space for your dream wine cellar, this is the next best thing!
Pros
Cons
4. Best Customizable Option: Aobosi Dual-Zone Wine Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 28 bottles
- Space: Freestanding or built-in
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 5” x 22.7” x 34.2”
- Cost: $
The Aobosi model is an upper zone unit that allows you to chill both red and white wines at their suggested temperatures. Aobosi has two different sizes which make it handy to suit different-sized collections. This particular model accommodates 28 bottles.
Removable and adjustable shelves make it easy to customize your cooler according to different-sized wine bottles. This option can be left as a freestanding unit or easily incorporated into your new or existing kitchen cupboards. A tempered glass door prevents damaging UV rays from affecting the tannins in the stored bottles.
Pros
Cons
5. Best Built-In Wine Cellars: Kalamera Dual-Zone Wine Fridge
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 46 bottles
- Space: Freestanding or built-in
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 23.4” x 33” x 22.4”
- Cost: $$
Kalamera is a well-known industry leader when it comes to coolers. In addition to a considerable variety, they also offer different installation options and reasonable price points.
This particular model can be built into your current kitchen cabinets or be displayed as a freestanding unit. Each zone has an extensive temperature range making it ideal to easily store both reds and whites. Designed using stainless steel as a frame and beech shelving for contrast. Ideally suited to storing regular-sized wine bottles.
Pros
Cons
6. Phiestina Dual-Zone Wine Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 33 bottles
- Space: Freestanding or built-in
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 22.48” x 15.55” x 33.0”
- Cost: $$
Phiestina offers wine collectors with limited space an option to store their wine collection. As a dual-zone option, it’s an ideal choice to store red and white wine for long and short-term storage. White wines can easily be stored on the upper level while reds can be stored in a warmer setting at the bottom.
Like many of the other units on this review list, this model is designed as a freestanding unit or as a unit built-in to existing cabinets. One of the more dominant features is the reversible door hinge. This nifty hinge allows you to configure your cooler to best suit the available space you have. Ideal for compact kitchens.
Pros
Cons
7. Karcassin Dual-Zone Wine Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 28 bottles
- Space: Freestanding
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 15” x 22.6” x 32.9”
- Cost: $$
The Karcassin Dual-Zone Cooler can easily be independently controlled, allowing you to store both red and whites for long periods. A unique lock feature prevents cold air from escaping every time the door is opened.
A modern LED light adds a modern touch and keeps harmful UV rays from running your wine collection’s tannin levels. As a freestanding unit this cooler is compact enough to be placed in your kitchen or anywhere else you might have space.
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Cons
8. The Whynter Stainless Steel Dual-Zone Wine Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 92 bottles
- Space: Freestanding or built-in
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 14” x 20.5” x 33.5”
- Cost: $$$
Known as one of the top wine refrigerator brands, this model doesn’t disappoint. It easily houses 40 bottles in the top zone and 52 in the bottom section. With a temperature variation of 40 – 65 degrees, you’ll have a lot of flexibility with the temperature. Keeping your wines chilled to the perfect temperature has never been easier!
Pros
Cons
9. Koolatron Dual-Zone Thermoelectric Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 12 bottles
- Space: Freestanding
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 10” x 20” x 26”
- Cost: $
If you’re only looking for a small cooler to store a few bottles of your favorite dinner wine then the Koolatron should make its way to your shortlist. Since it can only store 12 standard 750ml bottles, it’s not designed for a serious collector.
It cools both red and white wines quite efficiently at their proper temperatures. The varying temperature range is considerable enough to chill champagne as well.
While thermoelectric units are usually noisier than their compressor counterparts, this unit is remarkably quiet. As a freestanding unit, it can stand anywhere. It’s also budget-friendly!
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Cons
10. Ivation Dual-Zone Wine Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 33 bottles
- Space: Freestanding
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 4” x 16.9” x 33.4”
- Cost: $
With a stellar design, it’s easy to see why Ivation is so popular! And, with its considerable dimensions, it’s perfect for smaller spaces. Adjustable shelves make it easy to store regular as well as larger wine bottles. A plus here is that you also add cans on the bottom shelf, making the Ivation quite versatile.
Double-paned glass doors easily keep the interior properly insulated and prevent UV rays from affecting the flavor of your expensive wines. Responsive touch controls make it easy to regulate temperature and its modern interface is quite simple to use!
Pros
Cons
11. Lanbo Dual-Zone Wine Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 28 bottles
- Space: Freestanding or built-in
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 23.6” x 15” x 34.4”
- Cost: $$
The Lanbo Dual-Zone Wine Cooler offers a considerable amount of space inside the cooler but doesn’t take up too much space in your kitchen. With its compact size, it’s ideal for small apartments.
Stainless steel double doors are complemented by wooden shelving which slides in and out, making it easy to access your wine bottles. The tempered glass keeps the UV rays from impairing the quality of your wine. Size options include 28, 33 and 44 bottles.
Pros
Cons
12. Wine Enthusiast Dual-Zone Wine Cooler
Key Features
- Size/Capacity: 18 bottles
- Space: Freestanding or built-in
- Cooling Technology: Compressor
- Dimensions: 25” x 20” x 37”
- Cost: $
If you’re looking for a compact model to house a small wine collection in the corner of your pantry, the Wine Enthusiast Dual-Zone Wine Cooler is worth checking out. Not only is it considerably cheaper than most other models, but it’s also quite compact.
An intuitive and nifty digital touchscreen provides you with an easy interface that makes operating this cooler very simple. Unlike some of the beech shelves we’ve seen on the list, this unit offers chrome shelves that complement any modern kitchen. Chrome shelves also make it easier to store bigger, heavier bottles.
Pros
Cons
Also Read: The 7 Best Under Counter Wine Fridges
Final Thoughts
With the products we’ve shared in our review, we hope you can easily find a few options to add to your shortlist. We also hope that our handy buyer’s guide has highlighted the top features you should consider before making the final decision.
If you’re still on the fence about your favorite, we recommend the NewAir Wine Cooler which is quite popular because it houses 116 bottles. It can serve as a free-standing unit or be built into your existing kitchen cabinets. Choosing the perfect dual-zone wine cooler will allow you to store your wine properly without sacrificing the taste!