All fine wine collections require the same basic care and feeding. The pros list climate, humidity, and light control systems as must-haves to protect and preserve tender vintages. Vapor-tight doors and easy access are also top priorities. But the spaces that store those collections are as varied as the motives of homeowners who are willing to devote precious square footage to their favorite beverage. “Wine cellars seem to be the cool amenity right now,” says Austin, Texas-based architect Dick Clark. But before you build a wine cellar worthy of a world-class connoisseur, Clark advises to “first find out if the client is a true collector or if this is just for casual storage. Think about if they will be drinking the wine within the year or storing it as a commodity for 15 years.” Clark adds that many clients want space for tastings, but cautions that “the bigger the cellar is, the harder it is to control temperature and humidity.”

Wine Rider

Architect Dick Clark produced this 3,000-bottle wine cellar for a retired international motorcycle racing champion well on his way to becoming a serious oenophile. A rugged stone and leather encased grotto seemed a natural fit for Clark's thrill-seeking client.

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