Wine fridges come in a range of heights but within that range that are common and standard heights. Wine fridges range from 45cm high for some tabletop options to over 2 meters tall in the full height freestanding range. The height of the wine fridge often depends on the installation with different installation types having different sizes, today's blog post will delve into how tall wine fridges are and why.
How tall are freestanding wine fridges?
Freestanding wine fridges range in height from just 45cm tall to over 2 meters tall and a full range in-between. That said, there are some common heights for freestanding wine fridges that just make sense for the end user; the wine enthusiast.
A typical 'tall' freestanding wine fridge is between 170cm to 210cm tall. These wine storage cabinets are often for the serious wine lover with capacities of 150-250 bottles and can be either dual zone wine fridges for wine service or wine storage cabinets for long term storage.
How tall are undercounter wine fridges?
Defined by the name, undercounter or built-in wine fridges are either 82cm tall or 88cm tall and made for either a standard countertop height or the German countertop height. All of these wine fridges will have adjustable feet, generally between 5-7cm so that you can adjust them to reach the top of your counter. Undercounter wine fridges are this height regardless of width.
How tall are integrated wine fridges?
Integrated wine fridges have very specific heights that reflect other kitchen appliances like microwave ovens, built in fridge freezers etc and are only ever available in aperture gap heights of 455mm, 595mm, 885mm, 1234mm and 1786mm height sizes.
What are the advantages of a tall wine fridge?
- Ample Storage Capacity:
One of the standout features of tall wine fridges is their generous storage capacity. Unlike their smaller counterparts, tall wine fridges can accommodate a substantial number of bottles, making them an excellent choice for serious collectors or establishments with extensive wine selections. This allows you to build a diverse collection over time without worrying about storage limitations including Champagne (although a Champagne fridge may also be a good shout).
- Temperature Zoning:
Tall wine fridges often come equipped with multiple temperature zones, allowing you to store different types of wine at their optimal temperatures within the same unit. Red wines, white wines, and sparkling wines each have their ideal serving temperatures, and the ability to customise the temperature settings in various sections of a tall wine fridge ensures that your entire collection is stored under perfect conditions.
- Sleek Aesthetic Appeal:
The tall, slender design of these wine fridges adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any space. Whether placed in a dedicated wine cellar, a kitchen corner, or a restaurant, the tall wine fridge can seamlessly integrate into the surroundings, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. The sleek, modern look of these fridges is often a selling point for those who prioritise both form and function.
- Space Efficiency:
Tall wine fridges are designed to optimise vertical space, making them a space-efficient choice, especially for urban dwellings or areas with limited square footage. By utilising height rather than width, these fridges offer a higher bottle capacity without monopolising valuable floor space. This makes them an excellent solution for those looking to maximise storage without sacrificing room functionality.
- Reduced Vibration:
Wine is a delicate beverage that can be adversely affected by vibrations. Tall wine fridges often incorporate advanced compressor technology and vibration-dampening features to minimise disturbances to the wine. This ensures that your bottles age gracefully and undisturbed, preserving the wine's integrity and complexity.
- Customisable Shelving:
Tall wine fridges typically come with adjustable and removable shelves, allowing you to customise the interior layout to accommodate different bottle sizes and shapes. This flexibility is particularly valuable when storing a diverse wine collection that includes standard bottles, magnums, or oddly shaped specialty bottles.
- Energy Efficiency:
Many tall wine fridges are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They often feature advanced insulation materials and technologies that help maintain stable internal temperatures with minimal energy consumption. This not only benefits the environment but also contributes to cost savings in the long run.
What are the disadvantages of a tall wine fridge?
- Space Constraints:
Paradoxically, while tall wine fridges are praised for their space efficiency, they can pose challenges in terms of installation and placement. The vertical design that optimises height may clash with spaces that have low ceilings or limited vertical room. This can restrict the placement options, making it challenging to integrate a tall wine fridge seamlessly into certain environments.
- Accessibility Issues:
The height of tall wine fridges may present accessibility issues, especially for individuals with limited mobility or shorter stature. Retrieving bottles from the upper shelves may require a step stool or additional effort, potentially detracting from the overall convenience of accessing your wine collection. This is a crucial consideration for those who prioritise ease of use and accessibility in their storage solutions.
- Limited Placement Options:
While tall wine fridges are aesthetically pleasing, their design may limit placement options in certain spaces. The vertical orientation may not blend seamlessly with all interior designs, and finding an appropriate location that complements both the fridge and the surrounding space can be a challenge. This limitation may be a significant drawback for those who value design harmony.
- Potential Stability Issues:
The slender design of tall wine fridges, while visually appealing, can sometimes result in stability concerns. These fridges may be more prone to tipping or becoming unstable, especially in households with pets or children. Ensuring proper anchoring and stability is essential to prevent accidents and damage to both the fridge and the wine collection.
- Price Considerations:
Tall wine fridges, particularly those with advanced features and larger capacities, often come with a heftier price tag compared to their smaller counterparts. The investment required to purchase and maintain a tall wine fridge can be a significant factor for budget-conscious consumers. It's important to weigh the cost against the specific features and benefits that align with your storage needs.
- Maintenance Challenges:
Cleaning and maintaining a tall wine fridge can be more cumbersome compared to smaller models. The height of the unit may require additional effort to reach all areas, and removing shelves for thorough cleaning can be more complex. This could be a deterrent for individuals who prioritise easy maintenance and cleaning in their appliances.
- Energy Consumption:
A pro and a con! While some tall wine fridges are designed with energy efficiency in mind, others may consume more energy due to their larger size and capacity. It's essential to consider the long-term energy costs associated with running a tall wine fridge, as this can impact both the environment and your utility bills.
Which brands manufacture tall wine fridges?
Almost all brands manufacture tall wine fridges if they manufacture wine fridges at all. Some of the most reliable tall wine fridge brands include EuroCave, Swisscave, Liebherr, Climadiff and Dunavox.
If you need help choosing a tall wine fridge either visit us in our London store or chat to us live on our chat facility.