A Glass Half-Full: Wine Country Wine Cellars & Private Tasting Rooms

When thinking about the 60 or so wineries dotted across the North Fork and in the Hamptons, it should be no surprise that the inclusion of wine cellars is a “must have” feature on the rise in a ‘wine country’ home. It is no question that visiting one of the many East End wineries like Bedell Cellars, Martha Clara Vineyards, or Palmer Vineyards on the North Fork and Duck Walk Vineyards, Wolffer Estate Vineyards, or Channing Daughters Winery in the Hamptons is always a memorable time, many wine connoisseurs are taking advantage of the rising trend and enjoying the benefits of hosting their own wine tasting parties in a custom crafted wine cellar.

A tasting area is a great feature for those who entertain frequently. (Courtesy Photo)

Demand for wine cellars over the past few years is on the rise notes Phillip D. Kouffman, Vice President of MKL Construction. Typical clients spend $30,000 to $70,000, explains Kouffman, on a custom cellar with detailed paneling and climate control built to hold 1,000 to 2,000 bottles. MKL has designed a wide variety of wine cellars creating cellars that look like caves to cellars with stone walls and columns. More traditional wine cellar designs feature beautiful finished wood paneling.

The location of the cellar also differs depending on the client. Some wine cellars are on the main floor while the majority are located on the lower level of the home. MKL had a client who wanted so showcase the wine cellar and installed a glass floor/ceiling above so guests could stand on the main floor and see right through to the wine cellar.

Wine lovers looking for more room to grow their collection should start by setting a budget for the project. The most important feature to consider is creating the best climate controlled condition for the wine. A very detailed lighting plan and very thick insulated glass keep condensation at bay which, Kouffman says, “is a real disaster.” The rest of the decisions tend to be aesthetic like which material to use on the floor, typically tile or cement is used, sometimes wood, but definitely not carpet which absorbs moisture.

If you can maintain a wine cellar and a collection to fill it, show it off. Mini-tasting rooms with comfortable seating within wine cellars are on the rise. This is a great option for people who entertain frequently and want an excuse to show off their wine collection.

Wine cellars are no longer just for people with vintage or expensive wine collections. They are becoming the norm for people who like to regularly sit back and enjoy a glass of vino and have outgrown the under-counter wine refrigerators that hold a dozen or so bottles. If you are constantly adding to your collection, or plan to start one, a wine cellar should be on your “must have” home improvements list. Cheers!

Tasting areas range in size from a small area in the wine cellar to a separate room. (Courtesy Photo)

MKL Construction is a three generation family-owned and operated company, has been creating exceptional homes and commercial properties for over half a century, satisfying the needs of discerning clientele who live or invest in the Hamptons. For more information call 631-324-9090 or visit www.mklconstruction.com.