Wine enthusiasts can enjoy the many benefits of having a built-in or under-counter wine cooler. Regardless if you want to show your wine collection or you have no extra storage for more wine bottles, wine coolers can ensure the safety of your wine in a temperature-controlled environment. Because the taste of wine dramatically depends on the temperature it was kept, having a wine cooler will keep your bottles at their ideal temperature. It would not fluctuate if its surrounding temperature changes.
Getting a wine cooler is highly suggested if you have several wine bottles that you do not plan to drink or serve for a month. This is not only applicable to your expensive wine bottles. Regular wines also need to be kept at their ideal temperature if they will not be consumed soon.
It would help if you also kept in mind that getting a wine cooler is not about how serious it comes to wine. Instead, you should consider the number of bottles you have and when you plan to drink or serve them. For instance, you do not say you need a wine cooler because you only have 5 to 6 bottles. Yes, you can keep these dark places on its side. However, you have to drink these several weeks later and get new bottles every month to store your wines like this.
Types of Built-In and Under Counter Wine Coolers
Here are the different types of built-in and under-counter wine coolers:
Thermoelectric Coolers
This type of wine cooler has a technology that can keep cool inside by drawing out the heat. Instead of using a motor to keep the internal part cool, it utilizes an electric current. Unlike the compressor types, this wine cooler type operates more quietly and consumes less electricity.
Advantages of Thermoelectric Coolers:
Free from Noise and Vibration
Because a thermoelectric wine cooler operates silently, you can expect that there are no vibrations as well. In addition, because there are no moving components such as motors or compressors, the unit is vibration-free.
Energy-Saving
The efficiency of thermoelectric coolers can be attributed to their ability to utilize the external environment to cool the unit’s internal part. Therefore, it does not use a lot of energy and is environment-friendly.
Very Lightweight
This is one of the best benefits of using a thermoelectric wine cooler. It is extremely light compared to the compressor types. The reason for this is that it does not have heavy parts such as motors and compressors. Therefore, you can easily move it around.
Versatile
You can install and use this type of wine cooler virtually anywhere.
What You Need to Keep in Mind about Thermoelectric Coolers
Although the advantages look appealing, here are some things you need to consider:
- Because there is no compressor, installing a thermoelectric wine cooler in very hot places is not a good idea. It can be influenced easily by its external environment, so the cooling in the interiors can be affected.
- These coolers are not the most powerful. Therefore, you might need to wait before your wine gets chilled. What you can do is to put your wine bottles in early if you plan to serve them.
- It has limited capacity on the number of bottles it can hold. Since its cooling capacity is not very strong, you can only put a few wine bottles.
Compressor Wine Coolers
The technology behind compressor wine coolers is that it condenses and lets out the air so that the unit’s interior temperature decreases. It has the same technology as what is used in standard refrigerators. Compressor wine coolers are powerful since they have a thermostat. Therefore, it can sustain the temperature set. However, when you consider the compressor type, you have to give it free up some space at the back to release heat for ventilation.
Advantages of Compressor Coolers:
Strong
A compressor wine cooler is way more powerful and effective than a thermoelectric wine cooler. Therefore, many people choose if they need a tough unit to cool their wines.
Efficient
This wine cooler type is dynamic. That is because it can keep the wine bottles at various temperatures that you set and regulate.
Capacity
You can keep a lot of wine bottles in this wine cooler. Therefore, you can maximize the storage.
Consistent Temperature
Since a compressor wine cooler is not influenced by the environment outside, it can maintain consistent temperature even though there are temperature fluctuations from the external environment.
What You Need to Keep in Mind about Compressor Coolers
- Because it runs using a compressor, a compressor wine cooler makes many vibrations and noises that affect your wines.
- Compressor wine coolers consume much energy making them not energy-saving. Aside from using much electricity, it also has chemicals that can be harmful to the environment.
- These compressor coolers are heavy, so they are difficult to move from one room to another.
Top 15 Best Built-in & Under Counter Wine Coolers
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1. #Our Pick: 30-Bottle Built-In or Freestanding Wine Cooler by Kalamera
There are so many great things about this wine cooler from Kalamera. That is why this is our top pick for this review. One of the best features of this wine cooler is that it has excellent air circulation. In addition, the touchscreen and digital controls, and LCD are convenient.
The memory function of this unit is impressive. For example, if there is a power outage, this wine cooler can remember your set temperature. Therefore, it can automatically set the unit’s temperature to what it was—no need to worry about not having a chilled wine when you arrive home if this happens.
This Kalamera wine cooler can accommodate various wines, from dessert wine to red and white wines. The temperature range it has is 40 degrees Fahrenheit up to 66 degrees. So this cooler can make your dessert wine perfectly chilled.
On every shelf, you can put 5 bottles even though the cooler is just 15 inches wide. Moreover, you also have a lot of options on how to position your wine bottles. Therefore, you fit more bottles in a more compact space without compromising ventilation.
Things We Liked:
- ● A great addition to any space● Size is close to a trash compactor replacement● It Has a good quality compressor which gives an equal distribution of cool air● , Tolerable noise● Temperature display, and easy visibility of wine labels add convenience
Things We Disliked:
● Too compact to fit 30 wine bottles with a standard size. The capacity is more or less 25.● The temperature can be higher than the one displayed if the cooler is fully stocked.
2.Runner Up: 30-Bottle Built-In Wine Cooler by EdgeStar
This EdgeStar wine cooler looks compact even though it can hold up to 30 bottles. Therefore, it is an excellent addition to homes. The cabinet and the door’s front trim have a black finish. Nevertheless, its interior shelves at the front are made of wood. This design gives the unit a rustic feel it.
The door is made of tempered and double-paned glass. The black tinting of the door gives your wines added production from UV rays and other damaging elements. Moreover, the handle can be gripped from top to bottom. The door is also reversible.
Besides keeping your wine at the right temperature, this wine cooler can provide more protection because it has a carbon filter. The flavors of wines can be affected if odors get into them. This can be prevented by having a carbon filter.
You also have an option to have the auto-defrost feature fitted into this cooler. Moreover, you can effortlessly put this under your counter or in a pre-prepared cabinet area because the air circulates from the cooler’s front part.
Things We Liked:
● Has an auto-defrost feature● There is room for larger bottles because of the removable racks● Has reversible doors that can be opened in 2 directions
Things We Disliked:
● Some buyers did not like the noise● Bottles can be too squeezed together if used in a full-bottle capacity
3.Upgrade Pick: 36-Bottle Built-In Wine Cooler by EdgeStar
For different wine cooling needs, this wine cooler from EdgeStar is worth checking out. Its appearance looks very elegant. Therefore, it can easily enhance or complement your kitchen or the bar you have at home. It also has French doors.
It is a dual-zone wine cooler. That means you can have 2 different temperature zones that you control separately. This is beneficial if you have many red and white wines. Since these wines have different ideal storage temperatures, this wine cooler will give your lasting and more delicious wines.
Another feature that you would love is its installation options. You can use it as an under-counter or freestanding wine cooler. There is ventilation in the front so that you can use it under your counter. The enclosed back part lets you install it as a freestanding unit. Thus, it is easy to put up. The stainless steel trimmed wood shelves can be slid out, so you can fit 36 standard-sized wine bottles without any hassle. The shelves are not only functional but also aesthetic.
The tinted glass lets you see your wines more easily and protects your bottles from UV rays. In addition, you can conveniently and easily monitor the temperature because of the digital touchscreen display.
Things We Liked:
● Has a tinted glass door for extra protection● Convenient and accurate temperature controls● Has a removable bottle rack● Comes with a safety lock
Things We Disliked:
● Noises and vibrations could be a little bothersome
4.Budget Pick: 30-Bottle Built-In or Freestanding Wine Cooler by Kalamera
There are so many positive things about this Kalamera wine cooler. Nevertheless, this is the option that we think best fits any budget. One of the best features of this wine cooler is that it has excellent air circulation. In addition, the touchscreen and digital controls, and LCD are convenient.
Considering the price, the memory function of this unit is impressive. If there is a power outage, this wine cooler can remember the temperature you set. Therefore, you do not need to set it again manually.
Although the cooler is just 15 inches wide, you can put 5 wine bottles on each shelf. Moreover, you can position your wine bottles in different ways. As a result, you can fit more bottles in a more compact space without compromising ventilation.
Things We Liked:
● A great addition to any space● Size is close to a trash compactor replacement● Has a good quality compressor which gives an equal distribution of cool air● Tolerable noise● Temperature display and easy visibility of wine labels add convenience● Has an embedded carbon filter so that there will be no bad odors
Things We Disliked:
● Too compact to fit 30 wine bottles with a standard size. The capacity is more or less 25.● The temperature can be higher than the one displayed if the cooler is fully stocked.
5. 46-Bottle Built-In or Freestanding Wine Cooler by Kalamera
It can be expected that this Kalamera wine cooler can last long because its overall structure is made from stainless steel. In addition, the built-in installation option makes it more stable. Your wine rich and fresh flavor can be maintained because of its quiet operation, and it is virtually vibration-free. Aside from being functional, it also complements any space.
The wine cooler has a triple-layer tempered glass door for better insulation. You can also adjust the shelving of this wine cooler, depending on the wine you have. Moreover, you can easily control the temperature because of the LCD. It is also dual-zone, so you will have upper and lower zones that have 2 separate temperatures. This unit has also been considered one of the best under-counter wine coolers.
Things We Liked:
● It has a sleek design● Has a large capacity● Has reversible doors● Has 2 separate temperature zones● Has a child safety lock feature● Can be installed as a built-in or freestanding wine cooler
Things We Disliked:
● Light has to be manually turned off or on● The feet could not be adjusted for leveling● Pricier compared to other models
6. 18-Bottle Built-In Wine Cooler by EdgeStar
Because this EdgeStar wine cooler is a compressor type, you can expect it to last long. You can also easily adjust its temperature. It can hold 18 wine bottles that have a 750 ml capacity. Even though it only has an 18-bottle capacity, it looks elegant. It can easily blend in your living room, home bar, or kitchen and beautifully display your wine collection.
It is recommended to keep the temperature between 40 to 65 degrees to ensure that your wine smells and tastes great. There might be a possibility that the wine will not chill properly if you go over this temperature range. Moreover, this only has one temperature zone, which is great for storing red or white wine.
Things We Liked:
● The carbon filter gives the unit a pleasant scent and gets rid of the bad odor● The stainless steel trim of the door and overall black finish protects the cooler from damaging elements such as UV rays● Adding to its attractiveness is its ultra-slim structure● Comes with a blue LED screen and digital controls for temperature● Portable and has an auto-defrost feature
Things We Disliked:
● Some assembly might be needed
7. 24-Bottle Built-In or Freestanding Wine Refrigerator Cooler by Phiestina
The Phiestina wine cooler is a good option to consider if you want to replace or add a wine cooler or your first time purchasing one. This wine cooler’s best features are; hushed operation, convenient controls, and classy design.
You can easily install this in virtually any space. Its blue LED lights add a great aesthetic to the unit. These lights are wonderful, especially at night. It is also functional because the compressor does a great job in cooling wines. It can maintain a consistent temperature that ranges from 40 to 66 degrees without fluctuations.
Things We Liked:
● Has a quiet compressor● Wooden shelves can be easily removed● Easy to regulate the temperature● Blue LED lights make it easy to see the wines● Has an elegant and sleek appearance
Things We Disliked:
● Until the inside of the unit is cool, it could disperse heat from the vents
8. 172-Bottle Wine Refrigerator by Allavino
This wine fridge from Allavino is a good choice if you have a bar since it has a large bottle capacity. It can hold 172 bottles, so it is great if you have a wine business or a vast wine collection.
Although it is big, the wine cooler is not an eyesore. It is a great design piece for any space. It can easily complement the interiors or other appliances you have. It is durable, so you can use it in many years to come.
Things We Liked:
● Has an elegant look● Comes with 14 durable and well-spaced wine racks● Tremendous bottle capacity● Can store large wine bottles● Convenient screen display and simple control
Things We Disliked:
● It could be too noisy● There are reports that the unit increased its internal temperature
9. 28-Bottle Built-In or Freestanding Wine Cooler Refrigerator by Antarctic Star
Antarctic Star’s wine cooler is more expensive than other wine coolers for good reasons. One of its many premium features is its smooth stainless frame. Moreover, its door has a stainless steel frame that has no seams that are joined together. Other features include a durable and noiseless compressor, a long stainless steel door handle, and a dual-pane glass door.
It is also ideal for under-counter installation because of its narrow width. You can also opt for a built-in installation because of the vents in front of the unit. Since there is a large vertical height between the beech wood shelves, you can store many wine bottles without moving a shelf. Also, you can easily adjust the temperature with the digital control. There is also an automatic lock temperature feature and LED lighting.
Things We Liked:
● Operates quietly● Can set preferred temperature fast● Has a sleek appearance● Space-saving● Great bottle capacity
Things We Disliked:
● Instructions could be better● Spaces between the rack can be tight
10. 53-Bottle Built-In Wine Cooler by EdgeStar
If you have a growing collection of wines, a small wine fridge may not be enough. This wine cooler from EdgeStar is a good option to store your wine bottles. It can provide ample storage without taking too much space. This cooler is recommended for premium wines.
The sliding wood-trimmed wire shelves are easy to use. Moreover, the glass door is double-pane and reversible, so it is easy to open the cooler. Because it is reversible, it gently glides as you open and close it. The blue LED lights enhance the beauty of the wine bottles. The stainless steel black design of this unit makes it look sleek and elegant.
Things We Liked:
● The bottle capacity is perfect for any wine collection● The black finish is sleek and classy● Sliding shelves and doors are convenient● Wine bottles can be easily accessed
Things We Disliked:
● The fan can be noisy● The trays do not pull out far enough
11. 31-Bottle Built-In or Freestanding Wine Refrigerator Cooler by Bodega
You can give your wines their ideal home with this Bodega wine cooler. This is perfect regardless if you plan to store your wine for a short or long period. Aside from preserving the wine’s quality, this cooler also protects the bottle. In addition, because the wines are kept at a consistent temperature, your wines are always ready to drink.
The advanced compressor of this wine cooler operates quietly and produces lesser vibrations. You can also see and regulate the temperature easily because of the LCD control panel.
Things We Liked:
● Features a state-of-the-art cooling technology● Has sliding shelves● Comes with a safety lock● The glass door is tempered and double-layered
Things We Disliked:
● Too compressed to fit 31 bottles● The racks are too close together● You must bend over to see the display
12. 29-Bottle Wine Cooler by NewAir
If you are looking for a wine cooler that you can install anywhere in your house, you can check out this wine cooler from NewAir. The black cabinet, stainless steel frame, and wooden shelves give the unit a classy look. It is also a dual-zone cooler making it ideal for storing red and white wines. The blue LED lights and digital display add ease to this wine cooler. It also regulates humidity well because of the carbon filter feature.
Things We Liked:
● Has great size,● Operates quietly,● Comes with deep shelves,● Maintains consistent temperature
Things We Disliked:
● The compressor could be fragile● Warranty is short
13. Built-In Wine and Beverage Cooler by EdgeStar
This EdgeStar cooler is a great addition to any home. It provides great storage for your wine and beverages. Moreover, it is designed to fit under your counter. It also has a storage capacity for 17 wine bottles and 53 drinks in cans. It has a French door installed, so it looks great when you place it with your other interiors or appliances.
It also has great features such as touchscreen controls and display, tempered and double-paned glass doors, and advanced cooling technology, among many others.
Things We Liked:
● Easy to set up● Cools beer and wine bottles well● Has adjustable shelves
Things We Disliked:
● A little noisy● Difficult to purchase spare parts
14. Built-In and Freestanding Beverage and Wine Cooler by Kalamera
This beverage and wine cooler from Kalamera is perfect for your game room, entertainment room, kitchen, or bar. With its LCD, you can regulate and control the temperature. If there is a power outage, you do not need to set the temperature again because of its thermal meter. Moreover, the unit prevents your drinks from spoiling.
You can ensure that your wines are always fresh because of their cooling technology. The dual-zone storage can keep 20 wine bottles and 60 canned beverages. It comes with 7 wooden shelves and 6 wire racks. The left and right zones have an advanced temperature control technology system.
Things We Liked:
● Can hold a lot of wines, sodas, and beers● Easy to set up and maintain● Has beautiful French doors● Keeps wines at an ideal temperature
Things We Disliked:
● Shelves could only hold a few bottles● Operates noisily
15. 44-Bottle Built-In Wine Cooler by Lanbo
If you are looking for a wine cooler with plenty of storage, this wine cooler from Lanbo has 6 separate shelves made of beech wood. Aside from functionality, the shelves add elegance to the wine cooler’s black and stainless steel aesthetic. Moreover, you have the option to install it on its own or under your counter.
In case of power outages, the cooler automatically goes back to the temperature you set once the power comes back. The temperature inside your cooler is regulated because of the compressor. The double-pane and tempered glass makes the unit durable and protects your wine from damaging UV rays.
Things We Liked:
● Has white LED lights that turn off automatically after 10 minutes● Provides the right temperature for wines and beers● Regulates temperature well● Has reversible doors
Things We Disliked:
● The back feet cannot be adjusted● Stainless steel parts can get scratched easily● Has a noisy compressor
Built-in & Under Counter Wine Coolers Buyer’s Guide
Factors to Consider When Buying a Wine Cooler
Here are some of the factors to put into consideration when buying a built-in & counter wine cooler:
Bottle Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a wine cooler is the bottle capacity. A lot of kitchens have limited free space, so you might want to consider getting small units. Nevertheless, if you are not limited on space, you can check the number of bottles you want to store. Many wine cooler companies indicate the number of bottles their models can accommodate. However, these numbers are usually based on the sizes of Bordeaux-style bottles.
Installation
You should consider the space where you will install your wine cooler. Ideally, this space should be clear for a built-in wine cooler. However, unlike freestanding coolers, you have to assign a particular area, such as under your counter, where you can put your wine cooler and be a functioning appliance in your home.
Temperature Zones
For wine coolers that offer a single zone, these will keep your bottles at the same temperature. However, there could be a little variation at the top and bottom parts since the heat moves up. The bigger models often have dual zones. Getting there will be more convenient if you have red and white wines since you do not need to buy a separate wine cooler.
Price
Depending on the style, size, and features, prices for built-in coolers differ. You also have to consider the added extra costs for installation and the total upfront expenses. For example, wine coolers with bigger capacity and with added features such as touchscreen display or lock are pricier.
Design
There are wine cooler models that have chic LED lights that add beauty to them. Because wine coolers come in various colors, you can find the shade that best compliments your kitchen. The look of every wine cooler is subjective, so it will be better to browse and look for the visually appealing one for you. Once you have found one, you can imagine installing it in the area where you want to put it.
Durability
If you want to have a long-lasting wine cooler, you must shell out more money for a durable one. Although it may seem to cost too much, this will be worth it if you are worried about the risks of getting your wine ruined. Getting a quality wine cooler can save you more from having to buy a new one and paying installment costs again.
Energy Consumption
For fridges and coolers, these appliances consume a lot of energy. That includes wine coolers. Regardless of the model you get, you should not be surprised if you have to pay a little more on your electric bill. However, some models use less energy than others.
Noise Level
Generally, appliances are noisy. That is why you should consider this. As mentioned, thermoelectric wine coolers are preferred because there is virtually no noise. However, if you live in an area where the temperatures can be unpredictable or keen on your wines’ temperature, it will be better to opt for the quiet models. That is because noise and vibrations can affect the quality of your wines.
More Features
Some wine coolers boast added features, so you better check these out to make a better choice:
Security Lock
Getting a wine cooler with a security lock feature is great if you have expensive wines. However, you do not want other people to gain easy access to your exquisite collection of wines.
Touchscreen Display for Temperature
A touchscreen display for temperature is convenient for monitoring and regulating your wine cooler’s temperature. You do not need to open the door to adjust it. By doing this, you can alter the consistency of the temperature inside.
LED Lights
Aside from making your cooler more stylish, LED lights are functional because it gives you an easier view of your wines.
Extended Shelving
These shelves make it easier for you to get your wines located at the back of your under-counter wine cooler. Moreover, you can see the wine labels more easily, making it easier to decide which one you want to open.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How is a thermoelectric wine cooler better than a compressor wine cooler?
A: Thermoelectric coolers are generally vibration-free because it does not have a compressor. Fewer vibrations mean that the sediments from your wine bottles will be less likely to be disturbed.
Nevertheless, these coolers are not entirely quiet. That is because the fans inside may create some noise to disperse cool air within the unit. However, they produce less noise than the compressor types. They are also cheaper to operate because it does not use a lot of energy.
The downside of thermoelectric coolers is that there is a limit to the temperature it can provide, which is 20 degrees Fahrenheit lower than the external temperature. Compressor wine coolers do not have this limitation.
Q: What wine cooler should I get?
A: A thermoelectric wine cooler is recommended if you have at most 2 cases, the area where you plan the cooler does not get too hot, and you want a freestanding type. On the other hand, if the area is warm or has a big collection, you can benefit more from compressor wine coolers. Many built-in coolers have a compressor installed.
Q: How do I clean my wine cooler?
A: 1. First, you need to unplug your wine cooler.2. Then, you remove all the wine bottles, shelves, and everything else.3. Then, using a mild cleaner, you clean the surfaces inside. For the mild cleaner, you can use warm water or mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a liter of water to create a baking soda solution.4. For the shelves and trays, you can use a mild detergent solution to clean them.5. For the shelves and trays made of wood, you can use a wood cleaner and soft cloth.6. Next, you wash the outer part of the cooler using a mild detergent solution.7. Finally, you wipe dry the parts using a soft cloth.
Conclusion
Finally, you do not have to think about damaging tour wines’ flavor if you have a good built-in and under counter wine cooler. Aside from preserving the taste, a wine cooler provides the ideal environment for this drink. Therefore, you can have the best-tasting wine when you want it. Our review listed some of the best built-in and under-counter wine coolers that can make choosing one easier for you. In addition, these wine coolers are built to last long.
When you choose the ideal wine cooler for you, you can check out the factors we listed to help you make a sound decision. You could get a better insight into what wine cooler best suits your needs. Some of the key factors you can consider are a quiet operation, size, cooling system, and overall design.
Nevertheless, you should use these factors as your guide and decide based on your budget, wine storage needs, and the space where you plan to put your wine cooler. It would be best to keep in mind that you would see this unit every day, so make sure it suits your design aesthetic. Also, you will enjoy having wine night in more years.
