Starting a Wine Cellar

Interested in starting a wine cellar? You don't need a grand château or an underground cave. A closet, cabinet, or an area of the basement can be a wine palace. After all: It's not the where that's so important, it's the temperature and conditions of the space. Ideally, you want a cool, vibration-free spot where the temperature stays relatively steady. Wine breaks down faster in the presence of light, so the darker the area, the better.

Start by buying an inexpensive wine rack—or simply turn a cardboard wine box on its side to store your wines. Now, for the fun: decide what you'd like to buy. You might want to begin with Pinot Noir, from different Napa vineyards. Or Merlot, from around the world (Hint: include Gallo Family Vineyards Sonoma Merlot on your list). Head to your local wine shop or the wine aisle of your favorite grocery, try to stay within your budget, and slowly start your collection. You'll be glad you did.