People think it's going to be a usable room, but it's not. The optimum temperature for keeping wine is between 55 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Extremes can spoil the investment. Dried out corks can ruin a bottle and to store wines in bright light is also the kiss of death. Those who choose to put in dining areas either have to work around the temperature and humidity requirements, or they have to get even more creative by hiding the wines behind refrigerated glass walls or using other protective measures.
Experts agree, the ideas are unlimited, but the aesthetics expensive.
Where to start For those just starting out, collectors themselves recommend the purchase of portable units. Arch McClure of Wilton is well beyond the novice stage of his collecting. He and his wife frequent wine tastings like the periodic events hosted at the Ridgefield Community Center by Bruce Nevins and the Hay Day Wine Shop. In addition, the McClures enjoy incorporating their hobby into their travel plans and consider a trip to the wine country a treat. For Mr. McClure, collecting nice wines requires protecting his sizable investment.