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As previously mentioned the degree of humidity should not exceed 68 %, as above that level, the labels will slowly, but surely vanish. It is advisable to purchase a hygrometer either mechanical or digital in order to monitor the level-change
during the day. It is vital for the cork, that you have a certain humidity and if you observe the degree reaching below 50 %, you should obtain a humidifier. A cheap, but effective
solution, allthough not very reliable is to pour out some water on the cellar-floor, or better some left-overs of a wine.
If on the other hand, the degree is much above 68 %, you should buy a dehumidifyer, which should be set on 68 %
accordingly.
Regarding cooling, this is not normally required for an underground cellar, but depending on the climate where you live, it may be deemed nescessary to implement a cooling-system.
A certain heating can be a must during winter-time and as such it is just a matter of choosing a small electronic heater, which should be placed as far away from your rack(s), case(s) as possible. The temperature should be set at 10 ºCelsius, which in fact is the best temperature for almost all types of wine.
We will later on go deeper into this aspect, stating our
recommendation for various equipment and their brand.
Many members has asked about what the small cone on
especially older bottles of Bordeaux are called and the
purpose of it. The nick-name nowadays is "The Spirit" or "The Soul". The more correct name is Punt and is an upthrust in the buttom of the bottle. The major purpose being to "collect" or rather hold the sediments (crust) which developes as time goes by, making it easier when the time comes for
decanting, as a larger part of crust will remain with the punt.
The second purpose is a matter of serving a wine in the
correct manner,- which is by hiding the label by holding the bottle in a manner where the label faces the table, when in horizontal position and while pouring the wine, you solely hold the bottle with your right hand thumb into the punt and your other four fingers alongside the buttom and upwards.
There are many other explanations as to what the purpose is for the punt,- however the above described is the correct one.
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