Wine collecting has become increasingly popular and common over the last century with people of average or above income. Prior to this it was only the rich who would have wine collections which was usually located in the cellars of their homes. Of course this wine was only for family and guest use and was not so much viewed as an investment but rather as a need.
If wine has been stored correctly it can last for many years. Wine needs to be stored in the correct temperature and humidity in order for it to remain in good condition. 

Temperature

Temperature is a key factor in preserving your wine and allowing it to age well. The best temperature for wine storage is 56 – 58 degrees F. Organic esters in the wine gives it its characteristic flavor. At this temperature wine ages well and tastes great.

Different types of wines should be served at different temperatures. Use the following as a guide:

Red, rich, and full bodied wines are best served between 59 - 68 degrees F

• Rose, Blush, and Dry White wines should be served at 46 - 57 degrees F
• Light Red is better served at 54 - 57 degrees F
• Sparkling wines and Champagne should be served at 43 - 47 degrees F

A simple guide is that red wines can be served directly from storage and white wines should be removed from storage to the refrigerator before serving.

Controlling Humidity

Humidity levels of 70% RH or higher is optimal for wine storage. At this humidity level the cork will not shrink which prevents oxygen from slowly leaking into the bottle, causing oxidation and converting the wine to acid. Bitter wine is usually the result of oxidation, and humidity plays a big roll in preventing oxidation.

Ullage is the gap between the wine in the bottle and the cork. “Proper ullage” describes the distance that should exist between the cork and the wine. If the humidity level is maintained at 70% RH you will have cause the cork to expand and no wine can escape. Proper ullage makes the cork last longer and the wine stay fresher.

If the humidity of the wine bottle is lower than the 70%, the opposite will happen with wine slowly leaking from the bottle and the cork drying out, allowing oxygen to leak in. Air, or oxygen, is a wine destroyer.

If the wine in a bottle is filled to a high level this is generally a sign of a new wine or a very good wine of 5 – 15 years of age. If the wine is below the shoulder of the bottle the wine is probably not drinkable. Depending on the age and type of the wine the level of wine in the bottle will be different however the level should be at least to the upper shoulder on the bottle. When you find the wine level above the shoulder, you can be fairly certain it’s a good bottle of wine.