Wine’s Here! Now What?
Hi there! We thought we’d take a minute to share some tips on what to do when your Dirty Vine box lands on your doorstep. Summer is doing the most—whether you’re juggling kids between soccer games or working poolside with a glass in hand—we’ve got you covered.
When Your Box Arrives…
Pop it open! Our wines are carefully curated and most are meant to be enjoyed young. Translation: skip the cellar—these beauties are ready to drink. Toss them in the fridge and get ready to sip.
If you’re not drinking them right away (no judgment!), aim to store them in a consistently cool spot. Avoid kitchen cabinets or counters—those temps fluctuate like crazy. Got some extra closet space? Perfect.
Storage Basics
On the side or upright?
If your wine has a cork, laying it down helps keep the cork from drying out (which can let air in and spoil the wine). But if you’re planning to drink it soon, standing upright for a few weeks is totally fine.
Screw caps = still fancy.
Let’s squash this rumor: screw caps don’t mean cheap wine. In fact, they reduce the risk of oxidation or "corked" bottles. These can be stored upright—no fuss needed. Some of our favorite summer sips twist right open.
Wax tops: Don’t Stress
Got a bottle sealed with wax? No need to peel or chisel—just insert your corkscrew straight through the wax and pop it open. Easy.The wax helps to keep the cork in place and sealed to prevent any oxygen from getting in.
Let’s Talk Serving
Temperature matters. But don’t overthink it—these are guidelines, not rules. You're the one drinking it, after all.
Bubbles
Most people serve sparkling too cold, which mutes the flavors. Aim for 40–50°F. If it’s vintage Champagne, closer to 50 is best.
Flutes? Cute, but outdated. Go for a tulip glass or even a white wine glass. A Burgundy glass can be a great choice depending on the style—sometimes bigger, bolder Champagnes actually drink better when served in a wider glass.
Whites, Rosés & Orange Wines
Light whites, wines with delicate aromas, Sauvignon Blanc, Rieslings are best at. 40–50°F. Fuller whites & orange wines: 50–55°F. Rosés slightly chilled 48–53°F will be at their best.
If the wine tastes like nothing or watery, it’s probably too cold. Glass-wise: an “All Purpose” (AP) glass works for most. Bigger whites like your Chardonnays and textured Oranges wines are best served in a Burgundy glass.
Reds (our love language)
Room temp is often too warm. Light reds like Gamay, Pinot Noir thrive at 55–60°F. Medium-bodied wines like your Merlot’s and Zins can be served at 60–65°F. For the big reds—Cabs and Syrah—63–68°F is ideal. If you’re drinking these styles, you’ll want to taste the structure and tannin. If they’re too cold, all that gets muted.
Lighter reds = Burgundy glass, Big reds = Bordeaux glass.
Table wine? Honestly, any glass will do. We love a good Duralex glass for our fun red with pizza on date night—it’s easier to drink on the couch, cozied up watching a movie.
Saving the Rest for Tomorrow?
Most of our wines will hold up just fine till tomorrow. A few are sulfur-free, so those may fade faster. Your best bet? Recork and pop it in the fridge—yes, even the reds. The next day pull out a bit before drinking and give it a taste, still taste bright and interesting? You’re good to go. Not so great? Save it for cooking.
For bubbles, invest in a sparkling wine stopper. They work way better than you'd think!
Drink what you like, like what you drink. Happy Sipping!