Ideal humidity for my wine cellar

[Sammyk]

Humidity was 84% and we just moved a humidifier to the cellar. What is the best humidity for a cellar?

The concrete is not fully cured so we think that might be the cause of high humidity. Temp is staying in the 60's and we are OK with that. It still is not fully covered because a wall needs to be built using railroad ties to keep the dirt from falling down the sides.

 

[novalou]

Humidity was 84% and we just moved a humidifier to the cellar. What is the best humidity for a cellar?

The concrete is not fully cured so we think that might be the cause of high humidity. Temp is staying in the 60's and we are OK with that. It still is not fully covered because a wall needs to be built using railroad ties to keep the dirt from falling down the sides.

Watch for condensation. If water develops on the floor, walls, it's too high. Also, see if you get any mold growth in the summer.

 

[JohnT]

You want cave or humidor conditions, 60-65 degrees F with 70% humidity I believe is ideal.

 

[TonyP]

The issue with humidity is that corks can either dry-out or rot. Ideally, I'd try for 70% humidity and if you can't be precise try for something less, rather than more.

 

[winemaker_3352]

What if you use synthetic corks?? Is the humidity still need to be around 70%?

 

[Sammyk]

While still not fully covered with dirt, the temp is 68 and the humidity is 60%.

 

[whackfol]

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[TommBomb]

I have a cold room in my basement but its still in the low 70's for temp.. Can i guy in my position put a plug in air conditioning unit set at say mid to low 60's and run it that way? Is there any issues besides cost that im not aware of?

 

[JohnT]

The real need here is for steadyness. You want to aviod any violent swings in temperature. If you are in the low 70s, and you have a consistant temperature, then I have to say that you will be fine. Having an air conditioner is a bit extreme.

 

[TommBomb]

thanks john, thats what im concerned about as well.