1. Keep Temperature Consistent
The most important factor in wine storage is consistency. Fluctuating temperatures can cause wine to expand and contract, potentially compromising the cork and allowing oxygen to seep in.
Ideal long-term storage temperature: 55°F
Acceptable range: 50–59°F
Avoid storing wine above 70°F for extended periods.
If you don’t have a wine refrigerator, choose the coolest, darkest place in your home — away from the kitchen, laundry room, or direct sunlight.
2. Store Bottles on Their Side
Keeping bottles horizontal ensures the cork remains moist. A dry cork can shrink, allowing air into the bottle and prematurely aging the wine.
All WALT wines are sealed with quality natural cork closures, designed for graceful aging when stored properly.
3. Protect from Light and Vibration
Ultraviolet light can degrade wine over time, and constant vibration can disrupt sediment and aging.
Store your bottles:
In darkness (no direct sunlight)
Away from appliances
In a space with minimal movement
The Right Storage Temperatures for Pinot Noir vs. Chardonnay
Although both wines share similar storage needs, their serving temperatures differ — and that’s where many people get confused.
Storage Temperature (Long-Term)
Pinot Noir: 55°F
Chardonnay: 55°F
For aging purposes, both thrive under the same cellar conditions.
Serving Temperature (When You’re Ready to Enjoy)
Pinot Noir: 55–60°F
Slightly below room temperature to highlight aromatics and freshness.Chardonnay: 45–50°F
Cooler to preserve acidity and elegance — but not ice-cold, which can mute complexity.
Pro tip: If your Chardonnay is in the refrigerator (around 38°F), let it sit out for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Aging WALT Pinot Noir: Built for the Cellar — and the Moment
At WALT, our Pinot Noirs are crafted with structure, balance, and site expression at the forefront. Cool-climate vineyards across Sonoma County provide vibrant acidity and refined tannins — the two key components that allow Pinot Noir to age gracefully.
Well-stored WALT Pinot Noirs can age beautifully for:
5–10 years, depending on vineyard and vintage
In exceptional vintages, even longer
Over time, you may notice:
Bright red fruit evolving into dried cherry and cranberry
Floral notes deepening into forest floor and spice
Silky tannins becoming even more integrated and seamless
Yet what makes WALT truly special is this: our Pinot Noirs are just as compelling upon release.
We craft with intention — balancing approachability with longevity. That means you can:
Open a bottle tonight and experience vibrant fruit, lifted aromatics, and polished texture.
Or cellar it and watch it evolve into something layered and contemplative.
It’s the harmony between elegance and accessibility that defines WALT.
What About WALT Chardonnay?
Our Chardonnays — especially from the Sonoma Coast — are equally dynamic. With bright acidity, thoughtful oak integration, and mineral precision, they can age for:
3–7 years, depending on vineyard and vintage.
As they mature, expect:
Fresh citrus evolving into baked apple and brioche
Texture becoming richer and more rounded
A beautiful interplay of acidity and creaminess
Still, much like our Pinot Noir, WALT Chardonnay is crafted to shine in its youth — vibrant, expressive, and effortlessly enjoyable.
To Age or Not to Age?
If you love:
Fresh, lively fruit and bright energy → Drink now.
Savory complexity and layered evolution → Lay a few bottles down.
The beauty of WALT is that you don’t have to choose. Enjoy one today. Save one for later.
Proper storage ensures that whichever path you take, your bottle will tell its story exactly as intended — with elegance, purity, and a true sense of place.
Because great wine isn’t just made in the vineyard.
It’s cared for long after it leaves it.