Best Wine Fridge 2021 – Buyer’s Guide

The best wine chillers come in all shapes and sizes and accommodate many different varieties of wine. It’s important to choose one that suits your free space and tastes to get the most out of it. Consider the perfect conditions for your wine of choice when selecting your perfect wine cooler too – as we know, temperature is particularly important.

Interest in wine has been growing over the years, leaving many connoisseurs with the inevitable problem of where to store it all. Storage is less tricky for cheaper bottles, as they are not really made to be kept for a long time, but if you’re treating yourself to a crate of the vintage stuff, then it really needs to be kept in optimum conditions in order to last well.

Sadly, not many of us have the luxury of a roomy cellar in which to store our precious vintages. We are therefore limited to whatever space we have in the kitchen or cupboards, and rarely are the conditions quite right.

Wine bottles also take up a lot of room once you have more than half a dozen or so stacking up – especially if you’re a fan of large-bottle wine like champagne. For these reasons and more, investing in a good wine cooler can be a great problem-solver. We’ve reviewed what we believe to be the top Wine Chillers and listed them right here for you.

The Best Wine Fridges – Our Top Picks

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
  • Capacity: 12 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 10-18°
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 252 x 500 x 635mm
  • Energy Rating: A
  • Guarantee: 1 Year
  • Noise Level: 33 dB
Click for Best Price
  • Capacity: 12 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 10-18°
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 50 x 34 x 47.5cm
  • Guarantee: 1 Year
  • Energy Rating: A
  • Noise Level: 38 dB
Click for Best Price
  • Capacity: 7 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 2--20°C
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 86.3 x 15 x 52.5cm
  • Guarantee: 2 Year
  • Energy Rating: A+
  • Noise Level: 39dB
Click for Best Price

Best Freestanding Wine Fridge

You may want a bit of flexibility in terms of where you position your new wine cooler, in which case a freestanding model is your best bet.

The ones below come in a range of sizes, whether you want something which can fit under your kitchen/utility room counter, something a little taller which will look eye-catching in a games room or conservatory, or something huge which is the size of your fridge and shows off all your bottles with pride.

Baridi Wine Cooler

The Baridi Wine Cooler series is our favourite wine fridge. Don’t let the low price tag fool you, it performs just as well, if not better, than many professional level wine coolers out there.

The Baridi Wine Coolers from Dellonda comes in many sizes, but we tested the 12 bottle fridge. We loved the slim design that both looks amazing and saves us quite a bit of counter space. 

The thermoelectric cooling technology eliminates humming, uses less electricity and causes less vibration, making it ideal for the home environment. We could hardly believe the fridge was on after we set it up!

To top it off, there is an easy-to-use LED touchscreen you can use to adjust the temperature and settings. All of these features for an affordable price under £130 makes the Baridi the best wine cooler in our books.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 12 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 10-18°
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 252 x 500 x 635mm
  • Energy Rating: A
  • Guarantee: 1 Year
  • Noise Level: 33 dB

We like

  • Slim design saves space
  • Quiet
  • Price

We dislike

  • For once, nothing to say!

Final Verdict

This wine cooler is our favourite for its space-saving, stylish design. It has the feel of a high-end wine fridge and boasts one of the quietest noise levels we tested. To top it off, it is one of the most affordable wine coolers out there.

Kalamera KR-12A2E

The Kalamera KR-12A2E has a modern design that will impress. It holds 12 standard 750 ml wine bottles and boasts a sleek glass door. 

There is a simple LED display which allows you to adjust the temperature between 10 and 18 degrees.

This wine cooler is one of the most silent models we have tried. The internal light also allows you to view the drinks without opening the door.

If you are looking for a wine chiller that is both affordable, silent, and easy on the eyes, we would highly recommend the Kalamera KR-12A2E.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 12 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 10-18°
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 50 x 34 x 47.5cm
  • Guarantee: 1 Year
  • Energy Rating: A
  • Noise Level: 38 dB

We like

  • Silent
  • Price
  • LED Display

We dislike

  • Only holds 12 bottles

Final Verdict

This is one of our favourites as it performs very well, while not breaking the bank. If the 12 bottle capacity fits your needs, we highly recommend!

Caso Sound & Cool Lounge Table CS790

This combination of drinks cooler, soundbar and lounge table is a show stopper for any lounge space. It can hold 130 litres of bottles including wine, beer and soft drinks. This modern-looking wine and drinks fridge will look fantastic in any contemporary home.

It is A rated to run, allowing you to keep all of your drinks cool at a very reasonable cost on your wallet and the environment. This product also offers dual-zone temperature level control, enabling you to store wine and other drinks (or lounge snacks) at suitable temperatures. If you’re looking to quench your palate on a warm summer evening with a light, crisp white or wish to enjoy a bit of a warmer red on a winters night – this combination fridge has it all. 

With it’s two large pull out drawers, it’s easy to fill and take out exactly what you need, plus you don’t even need to walk to the kitchen. Also, there’s room for larger bottles like prosecco or champagne which other wine coolers can sometimes struggle with due to size. The Bluetooth interface includes 2 x USB ports so you can charge your devices while you relax.

This product is practical to use and looks great. It offers all the benefits of a conventional wine fridge with the added advantages of a 2.0 stereo soundbar (60 watts). We just love this innovative drinks fridge.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 130 Litres
  • Temperature Range: 1-12°C
  • Temperature Zones: 2
  • Dimensions: 66.5 x 130 x 46 cm
  • Guarantee: 2 Years
  • Energy Rating: A
  • Noise Level: 36 dB

We like

  • Easy to fill
  • Combination of wine fridge, soundbar and loungetable
  • Modern, stylish design

We dislike

  • Modern design may not suit all living spaces

Final Verdict

Fantastic all round product if you're looking for something a little different. This product will be the talk of any lounge space.

Russell Hobbs RHBI46DZWC1

This Russell Hobbs wine fridge has the ability to either be built-in (integrated) or freestanding, depending on your preference, which makes it ultra-flexible.

On top of this, it has two separate temperature zones. This allows you to store different wines at optimum temperatures, all within the same unit. Perfect for storing both red and white all in one place. You simply set the temperature using the LED control.

We love the sleek design of this model and the fact that it holds a whopping 46 wine bottles – so you’ll never go thirsty! With 6 shelves and an internal light for optimum display, you will have plenty of space to arrange your wine bottles for maximum impact.

Our one gripe with this wine cooler is the lack of built-in UV protection. This is important for protecting expensive wine from the light when stored for long periods. Aside from that, this model is very easy to use and great if you simply want somewhere to store your wine at the right temperature when entertaining guests, for example.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 46 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 5-22°C
  • Temperature zones: 2
  • Dimensions: 86.5 x 59.5 x 57cm
  • Guarantee: 2 Year
  • Energy Rating: C
  • Noise Level: 44 dB

+ Downloads

Russell Hobbs 46 Bottle Cooler Product Manual

Download

We like

  • Can be freestanding or built in
  • Two separate temperature zones
  • Variable temperature control

We dislike

  • Energy rating is poor
  • No UV protection

Final Verdict

Whatever the look and layout of your home, if you’re looking for a model that will fit right in, this could be the one

CDA FWC624SS

If you take the storage very seriously, then you’re going to need two separate storage temperature zones. This fridge will answer your prayers.

The two halves allow you to store different wines at different conditions. So, if you don’t like to just limit yourself to red and love a crisp white when the weather gets nicer, you can have both to hand. And they will be perfect, too.

There is enough room for around 40 bottles, which again means you aren’t limited. The temperature control is electronic, so you can get it exact and also change it quickly when needed. We have all had ‘surprise guests’ and needed to make some fast adjustments, after all. Humidity control will keep those bottles which are stored for the long-term in optimum conditions so that you can invest in some.

UV protection protects the wine from both the internal light which lets you see what is on offer, as well as any outside light. The latter is also achieved by using smoked glass, which further adds a hint of style.

Unlike some other large capacity chillers which can actually be the complete opposite of the Tardis when it comes to storage, this one (almost) does what it says on the tin. You get standard bottles in if you do a bit of jiggling around, and if you have some champagne in there, it will accept them but obviously not quite as many.

There is also a solid design, and it will look the part in any environment. Definitely worth the higher price tag as seeing you get a lot for your money.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 40 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 5-20°C
  • Temperature Zones: 2
  • Dimensions: 82-88 x 59.5 x 57cm
  • Guarantee: 5 Years
  • Energy Rating: B
  • Noise Level: 40 dB

+ Downloads

CDA FWC624SS Wine Cooler User Manual

Download

We like

  • Solidly built
  • Stylish shelving and door
  • Very quiet

We dislike

  • Price

Final Verdict

Well built and will please even the pickiest of customers

SMEG Classic SCV115AS

This wine cooler is another fantastic design by industry leaders Smeg. Ideal for anyone with regular guests and beverage connoisseurs respectively.

There’s no worry of running out of room with a capacity up to 115 bottles. You can set the temperature anywhere between 6 and 22 degrees, which is ideal depending on your collection. This is an ideal choice for anyone who likes to keep their drinks stored away from the food.

Rated A for efficiency, it works hard to keep the party going without disturbance, offering quiet operation. It’s one of the most sought-after wine appliances and evident why it’s such a fan favourite. The reliable product consists of a digital display, wooden shelves, a glass door and a stainless steel outer foundation.

Although it is one of the more expensive choices, it’s worth its weight in gold with a huge capacity and a clear door to display your finest collection. There’s a lot to love about this cooler – it’s not just practical but it’s a designer addition to your home too.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 115 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 6–22°
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 185 x 60 x 60cm
  • Guarantee: 2 Year
  • Energy Rating: A
  • Noise Level: 42 dB

+ Downloads

Smeg Classic SCV115AS Cooler user manual

Download

We like

  • Clear glass door
  • LED display
  • Wooden Shelves
  • Temperature between 6 and 22 degrees
  • Internal Light

We dislike

  • Requires a lot of space

Final Verdict

Large capacity appliance with excellent display capabilities, though on the expensive side.

Fisher & Paykel RF356RDWX1

Fisher & Paykel’s 144 bottle capacity cooler has two separate temperature zones so you can be sure that your different bottles are all stored at the right temperatures, ready for those last-minute nights in or when unexpected guests arrive.

The seven solid oak shelves will house your bottles, with the top shelf being adjustable to produce a stunning display for your most prized bottles. The fan assisted ventilation control ensures that your cooler will not hold on to any bad smells while keeping the temperature consistent throughout.

The UV tempered glass door ensures that sunlight will not affect your wine. Wooden shelves help to reduce vibrations, so the wine will remain still and taste fresh, and a low vibration compressor further ensures that your bottles are not disturbed, allowing them to maintain their quality for longer.

This cooler is also fitted with a temperature display, giving you peace of mind that your bottles are being stored perfectly.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 144 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 5-20°C
  • Temperature Zones: 2
  • Dimensions: 185.5 x 60 x 64cm
  • Guarantee: 5 Years
  • Energy Rating: B
  • Noise Level: 42 dB

+ Downloads

Fisher & Paykel RF356RDWX1 Freestanding Wine Cabinet user manual

Download

We like

  • Large bottle capacity
  • UV tempered glass door
  • Display shelf

We dislike

  • No antibacterial protection

Final Verdict

An excellent choice for the proud wine collector, perfect for displaying your most prized bottles and providing capacity that few other models do.

Montpellier WS19SDX

A nice option if you need the lowest possible temperatures for your crisp whites or fizz. This Montpellier appliance allows you to choose your exact coolness preference.

Most other wine fridges start at 4 degrees, so this one has the edge. Don’t worry if you prefer room temperature reds, though, because it still goes up to 20 degrees. The triple glazed tempered glass door is not only the perfect way to display your collection, but it is also UV resistant to protect your tipples.

There is also ambient blue lighting, which can be switched off if you prefer but does add a touch of something different to any dark kitchen corners. Keeping it clean is easy as well, as the glossy finish helps wiping it clean, and the anti-fingerprint coating will reduce the risk of grubby marks in the first place.

Despite a sound level which may look on the higher side, the specially designed noise dampening system helps to prevent your wine cooler from vibrating so it is actually barely audible when running. You get the odd noise every so often when it needs to change temperature or give itself a boost but nothing annoying. Combined with wooden shelves, your bottles will be safe and wine kept still.

The light isn’t very bright, more for design than effectiveness. The instruction manual is also a little unclear in places, and we will mention that it will only go down to 5 celsius until you ring their customer support and let them guide you through the settings. Therefore, setting up is a pain. But once it is all right, we found no further issues at all.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 19 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 2 - 20°C
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 86.3 x 30 x 57cm
  • Guarantee: 2 Years
  • Energy Rating: B
  • Noise Level: 39dB

We like

  • Good quality
  • Seems to hold the amount of bottles it claims to
  • Goes down to 2 degrees

We dislike

  • A bit of a faff to get it to 2 degrees

Final Verdict

Once it is all set up, we think it would be reliable and there is no doubting it is stylish

Husky Reflections HUS-HN12

Husky is well known for their retro mini-fridges, but that isn’t their only top-notch offering. This wine fridge shows off their design talents very well, too.

It will hold up to 34 bottles, which is good going for a fridge of its size. With a temperature range of 5-18°C, you should be able to get the perfect point for your choice of wine, whether it be high for red or lower for white. The LED screen adjustment also makes it easy to get it exactly right and quickly alter it when you’ve freshly restocked.

There is a B energy efficiency, which isn’t the best, but also by far the worst, so you aren’t going to notice too much of a jump in energy bills. This is even with the soft lighting which keeps your wine perfectly displayed, and also allows you to view them all without opening the door.

It is reflective mirror glass, so will add a nice touch to your decor too. There are wooden shelves, which we love as it reduces vibration (and also looks a lot better in our opinion). Top this with the stainless steel touches, and you have a thoroughly fab looking appliance.

The shelving is a little too small for those larger bottles, such as prosecco, so this is a cooler for the wine drinkers only. You can remove shelves if it will only be a temporary issue, however. Items such as cans and beer bottles are fine, though.

It is cheaper than many other similar chillers which offer less space. Do bear in mind the shelving restrictions if you know you will be stocking it to the brim, though.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 34 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 5-18°C
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 84.8 x 49.5 x 43cm
  • Guarantee: 1 Year
  • Energy Rating: B
  • Noise Level: 42 dB

+ Downloads

HUSKY Reflections HUS-HN12 Wine Cooler User Manual

Download

We like

  • Stylish
  • Nice inside light
  • Sturdy shelving

We dislike

  • Difficulty with larger bottles

Final Verdict

A couple of limitations, but overall a good answer to your chilling problems

Haier WS25GA

For those serious about their wine, this HAIER gives you plentiful storage, a good temperature range, and will not cost a lot to run.

There are wooden shelves, which can be adjusted to accommodate your bottles but will also reduce any vibrations which could affect the storage and quality of the wine. UV protection will also keep your wine at its best, even if it is at full capacity.

Internal touch controls make it easy to adjust the settings, and there is a temperature alarm which will alert you should the cold start to increase for whatever reason. The LED light is really effective and doesn’t emit any heat, and the range is 6-18°C.

The energy rating doesn’t only keep the running costs low but keeps energy usage down too. It is one of the best ratings in the wine fridge category, with a lot of others in the same size bracket coming in at a C or below. Bear in mind that there is only one chamber though.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 25 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 6-18°C
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 77 x 50 x 54cm
  • Guarantee: 2 Year
  • Energy Rating: A
  • Noise Level: 42 dB

We like

  • Adjustable shelving
  • UV protection glass in door

We dislike

  • Temperature adjustment is limited to red and white

Final Verdict

An effective single temperature zone wine cooler which is cheap to run and can accommodate a generous amount of bottles.

Essentials CWC8B15 Wine Cooler

One of the cheapest wine fridges around, but value doesn’t necessarily mean that it isn’t worth having in your home.

This single zone fridge has space for 8 standard 75cl bottles, which will allow you to keep a good stock ready for consumption. The temperature range of 5 – 20°C will keep red, rose and white wine fresh, even in the hottest and coolest external conditions.

With a sleek black finish and internal blue light, it will slot seamlessly into any decor, so you don’t have to worry about it ruining the looks.

An LED control panel lets you choose the temperature and you can also pick whether to display this in Fahrenheit or Celsius. Some more expensive options reach as low as 5 degrees, and there can be a bit of a tight fit on some of the racks if it is getting full, but all in all it is one of the best picks if you want a cheap option for a few extra bottles.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 15 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 5-20°C
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 51 x 44 x 47cm
  • Guarantee: 1 Year
  • Energy Rating: A
  • Noise Level: 41 dB

We like

  • Price
  • Sleek finish
  • Easy to control

We dislike

  • Temperature doesn't go as low as we would say is best for white wines

Final Verdict

When taking the price into consideration, this is by far one of the best value wine fridges out there. The couple of issues are pretty minor, and the extra space it provides is the main thing

Stoves 300SSWCMK2

A single temperature zone wine fridge, this model from Stoves gives the user the build quality and stylish finish you’d expect from such a well-respected appliance brand.

The fully glass door allows you to check on your bottles and see how things are going without having to open the door, which keeps the temperature consistent. It also allows guests to have a peek too, in case you want to do a bit of impressing.

This door is reversible, so you can choose which way round suits both your layout and your preferred hand. Six wooden shelves keep the bottles safe and reduce vibration, and also add a touch of great design.

There is a digital display on the outside so the temperature is always known to you, so you can keep the bottles stored at the right humidity. Choose between 5 and 22 degrees, so whether your tipple of preference is white or red, it will come out perfect.

Now for the downsides. It is on the noisier side, and if any of your bottles are larger than the standard size you’re going to struggle getting 18 in. in fact, even when all are standard size, 18 is still a stretch. Still – they’ll be shown off in style.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 18 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 5-22°C
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 87 - 89 x 29.5 x 56.8cm
  • Guarantee: 1 Year
  • Energy Rating: B
  • Noise Level: 39 dB

We like

  • Good at keeping temperature
  • Shelves are sturdy

We dislike

  • Audible at all times

Final Verdict

We would say it is a little pricey for what you get, but there is no doubting its quality if you want top make an investment to keep your beverages protected

Essentials CWC15B18

For the ideal small budget wine chiller, you could do much worse than this neat and useful Essentials Wine Cooler. With room for up to 15 bottles of wine, there is plentiful storage for a dinner party or just for your own enjoyment.

This straightforward fridge is small enough to sit on a countertop or tuck away in a utility cupboard, whatever suits your kitchen arrangement. The interior has one temperature zone which can be set to white, rosé or red – so if you like to mix up your wines, you might find a dual-zone version more appropriate.

Like all the top wine coolers, this Essentials model has an anti-UV glass door that helps to protect your wine from the spoiling effects of sunlight. The door hinge is also reversible, so you can reattach it on the most convenient side for you. Inside there are two separate metal shelves, with the temperature dial controls on the exterior. This budget model is both CFC and HFC free.

At 51 x 44 x 47 cm, these little coolers take up much less space than the average model, and is relatively light at 16 kg. The sound level is 41 dB, which is a little on the noisy side, but as a constant underlying sound it’s unlikely you will notice it much.

If you’re looking for a compact cooler that is cheap and convenient, then this Essentials model is a great solution.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 15 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 5-20°C
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 47.5 x 26 x 50.5cm
  • Guarantee: 1 Year
  • Energy Rating: A
  • Noise Level: 41 dB

+ Downloads

ESSENTIALS CWC15B18 Wine Cooler user manual

Download

We like

  • Compact and uncomplicated
  • 1-year warranty
  • UV protective glass

We dislike

  • Slightly noisy
  • Ice builds up if not defrosted

Final Verdict

A perfectly serviceable, stylish and compact 15-bottle wine fridge at a price that won’t break the bank.

Swan Retro SR16220BN

Able to hold 30 bottles of wine, this retro looking wine fridge is sure to be a statement at the party.

It is A+ rated to run, so keeping the drinks cool won’t cost a ridiculous amount. You also have a great level of control over the temperature to suit the selection of wines you are storing, whether you need things a bit warmer for reds or crisp and cool for whites.

A bright light makes it easy to view what is in the fridge without having to bring all the bottles out or open the door. There is plenty of room for bottles of fizz too, which some other models can really struggle with.

It is nice and easy to fill with a dedicated place for each bottle, and even a nice little shelf at the bottom for tins. You can have something for everyone.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 30 bottles
  • Temperature Range: 1 to 5 °C
  • Temperature zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 83.5 x 54.8 x 55cm
  • Energy rating: A+
  • Noise level: 39 dB

We like

  • Easy to fill
  • Nice bright light
  • Price

We dislike

  • Shelves feel a little flimsy

Final Verdict

Perfect. And for the price, you'll struggle to find a better small wine fridge.

Best Slim Wine Chiller

Maybe you have a small space by the side of your washing machine/fridge/pan cupboard that you just need to fill (and what better way than with wine), or perhaps you don’t want to take up too much space and only ever have one or two bottles at a time.

These are the smallest on our list, but still just as luxurious and helpful as their much larger counterparts.

Montpellier WS7SDX Wine Cooler

A capacity of seven bottles, this wine fridge is ideal for those beverages you want to keep on hand and ready to crack open, when you don’t have much spare space.

The 2 – 20°C temperature range will ensure that both your deep, dark reds and crisp, fresh whites are kept at the best possible degree. UV protection will ensure that the internal light and any sunlight does not damage the wine, and anti-vibration technology will keep it still too. Both of these factors should keep your wine at its best.

The glass in the door is also triple glazed, which retains temperature as well as keeping out the light. Anti-vibration technology is helped with the beech wood shelves, which are better than metal for keeping everything still.

You can control everything with the digital display, which is hidden away behind the door at the top of the unit so it doesn’t damage the look of the fridge. There is the option to reverse the hinge side, but you do have to bear in mind it will only take regular sized bottles.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 7 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 2--20°C
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 86.3 x 15 x 52.5cm
  • Guarantee: 2 Year
  • Energy Rating: A+
  • Noise Level: 39dB

We like

  • Slim design
  • Lots of protection to keep your wine at its best

We dislike

  • Only takes regular bottles

Final Verdict

Very stylish, keeps wine safe and preserved and is a great size. If you're a standard wine drinker then it is a great fridge for not taking up space

Best Integrated Wine Fridge

Whether you’re building your kitchen from new and just need a dedicated space for your bottles, or you’re lucky enough to have one already in place, integrated wine chillers are great as they keep everything safe while keeping it hidden. So if you’re not bothered about it all being displayed, then this is the answer.

CDA FWC304SS

Nice and flexible depending on the bottles you are saving, this is a single temperature zone wine fridge which gives you enough room to keep stocked up.

The temperature can be adjusted nicely so you can keep everything chilled if you’re stocked up for a party or having a week of al fresco dining in the sun with a bottle each night. Or, if you have invested in a few prized bottles for special occasions, keep them a bit warmer to help them last longer.

Humidity is controlled automatically and kept at 50 – 80%, which is the optimum for the type of appliance. Because the door is glass, you can keep a check on the goods without opening the door and altering the temperature at the same time.

There is also UV protection, which means any light will not have a negative effect on the condition of the wine. So, you are left with a little more flexibility in terms of positioning, especially if you have a light, airy kitchen.

It is relatively quiet when in operation, and there is also minimal vibrations, so the wine remains still and settled – another top pointer in our perfect wine storage guide.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 20 Bottles
  • Temperature Range: 5-20°C
  • Temperature Zones: 1
  • Dimensions: 82 - 88 x 29.5 x 57cm
  • Guarantee: 5 Years
  • Energy Rating: A
  • Noise Level: 39dB

+ Downloads

CDA FWC304SS Wine Cooler User Manual

Download

We like

  • Modern and stylish
  • Inside light
  • Plenty of protection

We dislike

  • Cost

Final Verdict

You can get some other models a little cheaper, but the price is justified as seeing everything is pretty much perfect. Great if you take this kind of thing very seriously

Wine Chiller Buying Guide

Choosing The Right Chiller

Capacity

Choosing the right level of capacity is important, as it will dictate how many wine bottles you can hold. Depending on whether you are an individual, family or a business, your capacity needs will vary. Small wine coolers may hold only 7-10 bottles, whereas in larger wine coolers you can store 100-200. That’s quite the collection!

It’s worth remembering that because champagne and burgundy bottles are larger, they may need more space in the wine coolers than a standard bottle of wine. Look for a wine cabinet that offers the ideal conditions for the variety of wine you prefer to buy.

Insulation

Even though often you will be keeping wine chilled, the right level of insulation is very important when selecting your cooler. It improves the efficiency of wine coolers and helps to keep running costs down, as well as ensuring that the overall temperature inside remains consistent – which is important for good wine storage. Seek out a cooler that is well insulated when making your choice.

The Ideal Temperatures For Wine

This is one of the most important considerations to have when purchasing your wine coolers. The correct temperature to store wine can obviously vary depending on what type of wine you choose. The recommended serving temperatures for wine are as follows:

  • Red: Between 10 and 18°C
  • White: Between 7 and 10°C
  • Rosé: Between 7 and 13°C
  • Champagne: Between 6 and 11°C

If what you are looking for is a cooler to store only one type of wine – perhaps for a long period until the time comes to drink it – then a wine fridge with a single temperature is fine for you. However, if you enjoy a range of wines and wine colours, then it may be beneficial for you to opt for dual or triple temperature zones. Dual zone coolers are usually preferred by people who like to entertain regularly and have a few varieties of wine on offer, as you can set the temperature of each zone accordingly.

Shelving

It is fairly straightforward really – the bigger your wine cooler, the more shelves it’s going to have. For more flexibility when storing your range of wines, you may want to consider going for wine coolers with adjustable shelves, so that you can take shelves out to make extra room if needed. Strong, durable materials are preferable – often they are made from wood or wire for maximum sturdiness. On large wine coolers, there is quite often a ‘display’ shelf for showing off your most impressive wines. The more premium models sometimes tilt their shelves so they are angled for easy retrieval. This is a nice feature if you can afford it, but it’s not essential.

Noise

There are no two ways about it, wine coolers have reputation for being noisier than their standard fridge cousins. This can be irritating, especially if it’s in a communal area. The louder coolers tend to be those that vibrate more, so check the specifications for anti-vibrate features. When in doubt, look for a model with a noise level of 45 dB or less for a quieter cooler.

Energy Usage

Unfortunately, wine coolers are often less efficient than a lot of other appliances are nowadays. The focus tends to be on improving efficiency for larger items like fridges and washing machines, while smaller products like this tend to slip by unnoticed. Naturally, the colder you need coolers to go, the more energy they will use. Where possible, try to opt for coolers with a higher energy rating or A or B. It may save you slightly more money in the long run.

Appliance Reviewer
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