If I have purchased an expensive bottle of wine that was displayed standing up, is it OK to lay it down on it's side for longer term storage? I have heard that changing a bottle from standing to side storage back and forth can be bad because once the wine isn't kept in contact with the cork and then is in contact again can affect the wine negatively.
Answer From Expert Roger Bohmrich MW
There is absolutely no worry - and I rarely can use the word "absolutely" in the world of wine - in laying down a bottle which has been upright. In fact, you may save a wine whose cork is beginning to dry out! I am assuming that this particular bottle does indeed have a cork rather than screw cap, which would be true of virtually all "expensive" wines (there are certainly exceptions). The real issues concern how long the bottle has been upright and the condition of the cork. You say it has been "displayed" - in a retail store or home? Either way, I would guess the temperature has been higher than ideal, and that the bottle has been in bright light. If you can determine exactly how long the bottle was displayed in these conditions, you can decide if you want to lay down the bottle for a shorter or longer period. Of course, not every expensive wine is intended for extended bottle aging. This will depend on the type of wine and vintage. The best strategy, particularly if you plan on keeping this bottle for a lengthy period (months or years), would be to place it on its side in a dark, cool location, assuming you don't have a wine cellar or cabinet. Even the bottom of a closet is preferable to a room in your house or apartment. Finally, when in doubt about a wine's condition, drink sooner rather than later.
