Undercounter Wine Fridges

Undercounter wine fridges come in set widths between 15cm, 30cm, 40cm, 50cm, 60cm and can usually be adjusted between 82-88cm tall, check each product description for accurate details.

What is an undercounter wine fridge?

Undercounter wine fridges seamlessly integrate into kitchen designs, resting on the floor with the option to be flush fitting or tucked beneath a counter. Unlike freestanding models, they don't need ventilation all around, allowing them to be surrounded by carpentry. Typically installed beneath kitchen counters, they vent from a front grille, requiring unrestricted airflow for optimal performance.

Undercounter fridges come in both single and dual zones, they're usually quieter than freestanding units as they need to be quiet within a kitchen setting, most fridges are either black or stainless steel. If you require an undercounter fridge but want to place a door in front of it, that is also possible, look for 'panel ready' options in the filters.

What's the difference between an undercounter wine fridge and a freestanding wine fridge?

Undercounter wine fridges have the versatility to function as freestanding units, unlike all freestanding wine fridges which may not have the capability to be built-in. This distinction arises from the location of the venting system, responsible for expelling hot air. Wine fridges with front venting are suitable for integration into kitchen spaces since they release air from the front of the unit. Consequently, it's feasible to incorporate paneling and cupboards around them without compromising their functionality.

Freestanding wine fridges are often built for service in wine bars and restaurants and hotels or for long term wine maturation. 

Are built-in and undercounter wine fridges the same?

Undercounter wine fridges are typically 82-88cm tall with adjustable feet to raise them to the height of your countertop, built-in wine fridges can also have these heights but can also be up to 180cm tall.

Why choose an undercounter wine fridge?

Most customers choose undercounter fridges because they want to serve wine at the ideal serving temperature and create a focal point in their kitchen, however, some models are also fitted with carbon filters that mean they are suitable for the long term ageing of fine wine. All Swisscave wine fridges have carbon filters and most mQuvee units do too.

1. Space Optimisation: One of the primary advantages of undercounter wine fridges is their ability to maximize space utilisation. Unlike bulky standalone units, these compact appliances fit seamlessly beneath kitchen countertops or built into cabinetry, making them ideal for homes with limited space. Whether you're designing a custom wine bar or upgrading your kitchen, an undercounter wine fridge offers a space-saving solution without compromising on storage capacity.

2. Temperature Control: Maintaining consistent temperature is crucial for preserving the delicate flavours and aromas of wine. Undercounter wine fridges are equipped with advanced cooling technology that allows users to set and regulate the temperature according to their specific preferences. With precise temperature control, you can ensure that your wines age gracefully and remain at their optimal drinking temperature, ready to be enjoyed at any moment.

3. Stylish Design: Beyond functionality, undercounter wine fridges add a touch of elegance to any space. Available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and finishes, these appliances seamlessly integrate into both modern and traditional kitchen designs. Whether you prefer a sleek stainless steel model or a more understated black finish, there's an option to complement your aesthetic preferences. Additionally, some models feature LED lighting and UV-resistant glass doors, showcasing your wine collection while protecting it from harmful external factors.

4. Convenience and Accessibility: Gone are the days of rummaging through cluttered cabinets or trekking to the basement to retrieve a bottle of wine. With an undercounter wine fridge, your favourite vintages are conveniently within reach, allowing you to indulge in a glass of your preferred varietal whenever the mood strikes. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, having your wine collection easily accessible enhances the overall dining and entertaining experience.

5. Customisation Options: Undercounter wine fridges offer flexibility and customisation options to suit individual preferences and needs. From single-zone units ideal for storing one type of wine at a consistent temperature to dual-zone models that accommodate a variety of varietals, there's a configuration to meet every requirement. Some models even come with adjustable shelves or removable racks, allowing you to organize your wine collection efficiently and accommodate larger bottles or odd-shaped containers.

What features should I look for with an undercounter wine fridge?

Asking these ten questions will direct you to the right undercounter wine fridge.

• What is the height of my kitchen counter? Most undercounter wine fridges stand at 82cm tall initially, but with adjustable feet, they can extend up to 89cm. There are also units starting at 88cm tall, with the capability to reach 95cm in height.

• Should the wine fridge be visible in my kitchen? For a seamlessly integrated look, consider "panel ready" wine fridges designed to blend into your kitchen cabinetry.

• What ventilation does an undercounter wine fridge require? As long as the front grille remains unobstructed (which may be covered by a plinth with perforations), the unit can effectively vent.

• Should I opt for a single or dual zone undercounter wine fridge? Consider your wine preferences: if you favor red or white, or if Champagne is a priority. Not all dual zone units split storage evenly; most lean towards accommodating red wine. Verify the bottle capacity for each compartment.

• Can Champagne bottles fit in an undercounter wine fridge? Some units may require partial shelf removal to accommodate Champagne bottles due to their wider base.

• Can an undercounter wine fridge be used for wine maturation? Yes, provided a carbon filter is installed inside.

• How noisy are undercounter wine fridges? Models emitting less than 39dB are suitable for kitchen placement. Cheaper variants may produce more noise, potentially causing disturbances.

• Flush fitting or swing door? Some wine fridges feature doors that open within their own footprint, eliminating the need for extra space for door swing. Confirm the installation instructions for each model to determine if it's flush fitting.

• What are the dimensions of my installation space? Consider the height, width, and depth of your aperture. Keep in mind that wine fridges come with plugs, so factor in the depth required for the plug. Most wine fridges are approximately 57cm deep to accommodate plug space.

• Should I prioritise security features? Evaluate if security features, such as locks or alarms, are necessary for safeguarding your wine collection.

Which is the best brand of undercounter wine fridge?

Our premium brand undercounter wine fridges are produced by top wine fridge manufacturers like Swisscave, Liebherr, Dunavox, Climadiff, mQuvee and EuroCave wine fridges are all considered premium in terms of their abilities to store wine specifically Vs more generic fridge manufacturers.

In 2024, an undercounter wine fridge is going to cost around £20-£30 to run per year. Single zones are more energy efficient than dual zones from the same brand, brands like Liebherr, Swisscave and EuroCave are the most energy efficient.

If you're looking for advice about an undercounter wine fridge then feel free to contact us via live chat or visit us in our London store.