For a wine connoisseur or avid wine collector, there comes a point when a collection calls for more than your average wine rack or case. It might be exciting to graduate a wine cellar that provides abundant storage — at the right temperature, of course — as well as an interesting way to enjoy the wine with family and friends.Whether you're storing a dozen bottles, or a hundred, wine cellars range from small fridges to walk-in coolers. Spend some time looking through various contemporary wine cellar designs and consider the following tips before diving into planning your own.

How do I upgrade from a wine rack to a wine cellar without a dedicated space?

If you or anyone at home enjoys and takes wine seriously, a purpose-built contemporary wine cellar is a worthwhile investment. You don’t need 500 bottles or a dedicated room to more to reap the benefits of a wine cellar. While a basement or dedicated space opens up many more contemporary wine cellar design options, you can invest in a small wine cooler to keep 20-odd bottles chilled to perfection and can sit within your kitchen. Kitchen wine cellars do not take up extra space and most times can be fitted in any corner. They also come in a wide variety, you can opt for a portable or a fixed one depending on the space available. If you already have a home bar then think about investing in a portable wine cellar for when you host parties.

What factors should I consider while designing my wine storage?

All vino lovers understand the many factors involved in creating a perfect storage for wine. Temperature control is at the core of a functional wine cellar. Your bottles need to be kept out of direct sunlight, and away from the heat and steam of kitchen appliances. A wine room that is too warm will make your wine age faster, oxidise and lose its character and flavour. Also, if bottles are corked, they also need to be laid down

What should I include in my wine cellar?

You can pick a wine cellar design that suits your collection and space. If you are wine collector probably should invest in a dedicated contemporary walk-in cooler with large wall-mounted racks or several tall wine fridges. For the amateur or beginner, a home bar with a wine fridge and small rack should be sufficient. You can also creatively mimic a winery by turning it into an entire tasting area. Add a dining table, bistro table or bar nearby, and be sure to keep handy accessories, like wine glasses and corkscrews, on hand.

How do I decorate my wine cellar?

Although Mediterranean wine cellars are an apt style to adapt for most Indian homes, changing up the decor is an easy way to create your wine cellar design. Intricate wood and stone are common traditional materials, while metal and glass finishes are more trendy. You can immerse yourself in Italian culture with mosaic tile murals, barrel ceilings, and archways, or you can go modern with sleek lines and minimal decorative displays. Regardless of your style, be sure all your wine storage materials, furniture, and decorative accessories support each other; a mismatched space can lead to decor confusion and an incomplete wine cellar.