Wine lovers’ collections benefit from optimal storage conditions. A dedicated wine fridge, specifically a dual zone wine fridge that can maintain two independent temperature zones, is an excellent option for committed wine connoisseurs. As the name suggests, this type of fridge keeps wines at different temperatures for serving or storing.
A good dual zone wine fridge creates the ideal cool, humid, and dark conditions for wine storage. The best fridge options maintain a stable temperature and have a range of features to protect the integrity of the wine. Keep reading to learn about the best dual zone wine fridge options for wine storage at home.
- BEST OVERALL: Newair 15” Built-in 29 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Fridge
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Phiestina 16 Inch Dual Zone Wine Cooler Fridge
- BEST SMALL: Aobosi 15” Wine Cooler
- BEST MID-SIZE: Kalamera 24-Inch 46 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Cooler
- BEST LARGE: Whynter 92-Bottle Dual Zone Wine Refrigerator
- BEST EXTRA LARGE: Lanbo 160 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Cooler
- BEST SLIM: Koolatron 12 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Cooler
- BEST COUNTERTOP: NutriChef Wine Cooler 18-Bottle Capacity
- BEST WINE AND BEER: Newair 24” Dual Zone Wine and Beverage Fridge
- ALSO CONSIDER: Ivation 28 Bottle Compressor Wine Cooler Refrigerator
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Dual Zone Wine Fridge
For many people, building up a personal wine collection is one of life’s little pleasures. Those who want to invest in a place to properly store wine may want to consider a dual zone wine fridge, which provides the right humidity and temperature to store prized bottles.
In general, both red and white wines should be stored at around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on the variety, white wines should be served between 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, and red wines are best served between 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. A dual zone wine fridge offers the flexibility to keep wines at different temperatures, whether for serving, storing, or both. When shopping for a dual zone wine fridge, consider its capacity, temperature range, cooling system, installation options, noise level, and any additional features.
Capacity
Dual zone wine fridges come in a range of sizes, from small countertop units to large floor models. Each unit’s packaging often lists its capacity in the number of bottles (stored on their side, the best way to store wine). This figure generally ranges from 20 to 150 standard 750-milliliter bottles of wine. However, if storing large or irregular-shaped bottles of wine, the actual capacity can be lower.
Some multiuse fridges can store both wine bottles and other beverage cans, so the manufacturer expresses their capacity accordingly. To avoid eventually running out of space, take future needs into account when considering capacity.
Of course, the larger the capacity, the larger the fridge. When shopping, note the fridge’s capacity and its dimensions. Look for a fridge that has the desired storage capacity while fitting within the available space.
Temperature Range
The best storage temperature for wine may vary from bottle to bottle (for temperature recommendations for special wines, contact the winemaker), but most wine can be stored at 55 degrees Fahrenheit both short- and long-term. However, many dual zone wine fridges have a wider temperature range to accommodate different serving and storage temperatures of wine and other beverages.
A dual zone wine cooler usually can achieve a temperature range between 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, one of the most important factors to look for is stable temperature: Temperature fluctuations can negatively affect wines. Look for fridges from reputable , well-rated brands to ensure a fridge can maintain a steady temperature. Easy-to-use temperature controls are a nice perk of some of the best dual zone wine and beverage cooler units.
Thermoelectric vs. Compressor
Wine fridges have two types of cooling mechanisms: thermoelectric and compressor based.
- Thermoelectric cooling systems, which are more common in small wine fridges, use an electrical current that passes through a plate, relying on the Peltier effect to keep things cool. Most have small fans to distribute the temperature evenly. Since they don’t have a compressor, thermoelectric wine fridges usually run quietly and produce few vibrations. However, they’re less efficient at cooling (usually only to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit) than compressor-based models, so they’re not suitable for warm rooms.
- Compressor-based wine fridges, which use a traditional compressor and refrigerant system, are more powerful and better at reaching lower temperatures (into the 30-degree Fahrenheit range) than thermoelectric options. Larger and built-in units are often compressor based. However, these systems can be noisier and more likely to cause vibration.
Freestanding vs. Built-In
Dual zone wine fridges can be freestanding or built-in. Freestanding wine fridges are standalone units that can go almost anywhere with an outlet, except under a counter. These fridges are available as floor or countertop units.
To install a fridge under the counter, look for a built-in unit, which helps provide a more seamless look to the kitchen. The ventilation system on this type of fridge is designed to function properly under a counter. Don’t install freestanding units under a counter; most have back-facing ventilation systems, which can cause the fridge to overheat if it’s installed as a built-in.
Some wine fridges can be used as either a freestanding or built-in unit. On both types, a reversible door allows the door to open to the left or the right for more flexible placement.
Noise and Vibration
All fridges, including wine fridges, make some noise. The level of tolerable noise depends on the wine fridge’s location. In living areas, a quiet unit is preferable, but if it’s in a basement or garage, noise level is less of a concern. Some units display a decibel rating. A household refrigerator runs at around 50 decibels, which helps provide an idea as to how loud the fridge will be.
Experts recommend storing wine away from sources of vibration, which can disturb the sediments in the wine and disrupt the aging process. Most wine fridges are designed with this in mind and don’t vibrate enough to deteriorate their contents. Generally, thermoelectric dual zone wine fridges run quieter and vibrate less than compressor-based units. However, these fridges also generally have a smaller capacity and perform poorly in warmer environments, so shoppers must determine if the noise and vibration trade-off is worthwhile.
Additional Features
As specialized products, dual zone wine fridges sometimes include a range of attractive extra features.
The best dual zone wine cooler options feature UV-resistant glass to prevent rays from penetrating the fridge. UV rays from the sun can damage wines, which is why wine is stored in the dark.
Interior LED lighting, which creates no heat, makes it easier for users to check their stock and read labels without opening the door and disrupting the temperature.
Door alarms sound an alert when the door is left open too long, while locks help prevent curious kids and teens from rummaging through the fridge.
Removable and adjustable shelves add storage flexibility. Most wine coolers are designed to fit standard 750-milliliter bottles of wine, but to store larger bottles, some feature adjustable shelving.
Our Top Picks
The best dual zone wine refrigerator creates ideal storage conditions for wine, so users can benefit from the full flavor and aroma from their favorite vintages.
Photo: amazon.com
Add a wine cellar to almost any room with this compact dual zone wine fridge from Newair. At 15 inches wide, it has a small footprint and can be used as either a built-in or freestanding unit. The interior is designed to hold up to 29 bottles: 14 bottles in the top zone and 15 in the bottom.
Newair recommends this unit for both residential and commercial use since it’s both reliable and attractive. Moreover, at just 39 decibels, it’s quiet. Users can adjust the temperature to between 40 and 66 degrees Fahrenheit (40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit in the top zone and 50 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit in the bottom).
The triple-insulated glass door keeps the LED-lit interior insulated and protected from UV rays. Sliding beech drawers won’t damage the exterior of the bottles and complement its stainless steel exterior. It includes extra perks such as a lock and an interior water container to maintain humidity and prevent dry corks.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding/built-in
- Capacity: 29 bottles
- Dimensions: 15 by 23 by 34 inches
Pros
- Freestanding or built-in
- Quiet operation
- Appealing design
Cons
- May not fit advertised capacity (depends on bottle type)
Get the Newair 15” wine fridge at Amazon, Wayfair, The Home Depot, or Best Buy.
Photo: amazon.com
Wine collecting is an expensive hobby, but storing the bottles doesn’t have to break the bank. The Phiestina 16 Inch Dual Zone Wine Cooler Fridge comes at a modest price. Since it will keep prized wine bottles in ideal conditions for years, it may be a worthy investment.
Measuring 15.55 inches wide, this quiet, freestanding unit is compact, making it an ideal option for kitchens, dining rooms, or hobby spaces. Despite its slim profile, it stores up to 33 standard bottles of wine. Its efficient compressor-based cooling system creates an upper zone that stores wines between 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit and from 50 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit in the bottom zone. The removable beechwood shelves are attractive and provide flexibility to store various bottle sizes. It features LED lighting and one-touch controls.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Capacity: 33 bottles
- Dimensions: 15.55 by 22.5 by 33 inches
Pros
- Relatively affordable
- Elegant design
- Straightforward controls
Cons
- Exterior can get warm during cooling cycle
Get the Phiestina wine fridge on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
This dual zone wine fridge from Aobosi is another compact choice, and since it can install as a freestanding or built-in unit, it’s also versatile. Its 15-inch width is ideal for residential use, parked under a counter or as a standalone fridge. It has two independent zones: The upper area can be set between 41 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit and the lower at 54 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. With a 28-bottle capacity, it’s roomy enough for many households.
The Aobasi has a stainless steel exterior, a tempered glass door, and sturdy wooden shelves. Wine lovers can use the pleasant glow of its soft blue LED lighting to see the bottles. The low-vibration compressor-based system runs at 42 decibels, so it’s suitable for any room. A lock screen prevents others from getting into the collection.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding/built-in
- Capacity: 28 bottles
- Dimensions: 15 by 23 by 34 inches
Pros
- Compact
- Quiet
- Screen lock and security lock features
Cons
Get the Aobosi wine cooler at Wayfair.
Photo: amazon.com
With a 46-bottle capacity, the Kalamera 24-Inch 46 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Cooler is an excellent choice for those who need more storage room. At 24 inches wide, this fridge is not too much wider than the smaller wine fridges on this list, but it almost doubles in capacity. Moreover, its front ventilation system allows it to be freestanding or built-in.
This fridge has a small upper zone that users can set from 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit and a larger lower zone with a 50-to-66-degree Fahrenheit range. The compressor-based system is relatively quiet with powerful fans to keep the bottles cool. An LED display and digital controls make it easy to operate.
Other comfort and design features on this unit include a stainless steel-trimmed, UV-protective, and reversible glass door, removable wood racks, and soft blue LED lighting. A built-in carbon filter creates a barrier against odors and a safety lock wards against unauthorized access. It also has a temperature memory function: After a power outage, the wine fridge will “remember” its last settings.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding/built-in
- Capacity: 46 bottles
- Dimensions: 23.4 by 22.4 by 33 inches
Pros
- Large capacity
- Built-in carbon filter
- Temperature memory function
Cons
- Relatively small upper (low-temperature) zone
Get the Kalamera wine cooler at Amazon, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Kalamera.
Photo: homedepot.com
With a 92-bottle capacity, the Whynter Dual Zone Wine Refrigerator has the capacity to store 40 bottles in the top zone and 52 bottles in the bottom. A compressor-based system keeps the interior cool, and users can choose a temperature between 40 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
This unit boasts a premium look and feel with a stainless steel-trimmed finish, attractive curved handle, and soft interior lighting. With a front-venting design and reversible door, it can be installed as a freestanding or built-in fridge. UV-protective doors allow users to see inside while protecting the wine from light.
The Whynter includes a safety lock to limit access and an activated carbon filter to maintain interior air quality. Twelve removable shelves allow users to store wine to its full capacity. Or, swap out a few shelves to put bottles on display or store already-opened bottles.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding/built-in
- Capacity: 92 bottles
- Dimensions: 23.5 by 22.25 by 54.75
Pros
- Large capacity
- Flexible installation options
- Includes display shelf
Cons
Get the Whynter wine refrigerator on Amazon, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Best Buy.
Photo: amazon.com
For those looking to store more than 100 bottles, the Lanbo 160 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Cooler is an excellent pick. It has a 160-bottle capacity, plenty for most households and enough for some restaurants or event spaces.
This unit has a reversible door and can be installed as a freestanding or built-in fridge. It’s tall, sleek, and attractive. Lanbo also boasts that this fridge is an energy-efficient pick that uses up to 55 percent less energy than traditional wine fridges (notable in a fridge this large).
Users can set the temperature between 41 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit in the upper zone and 54 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit in the lower. The quiet compressor-based cooler and internal fans ensure reliable temperature distribution. It includes a carbon filter to maintain air quality and a child lock to control access.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding/built-in
- Capacity: 160 bottles
- Dimensions: 23.4 by 26.8 by 71.3 inches
Pros
- Very large capacity
- Powerful cooling system
- Energy efficient
Cons
- Capacity greatly reduced when storing larger bottles
Get the Lanbo wine cooler at Amazon, Wayfair, and The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
With a slim build, the freestanding Koolatron 12 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Cooler is the best dual zone wine cooler for those with a tight space. This fridge measures just 10 inches wide, ideal to fit beside a home bar, next to a seating area, on a kitchen countertop, or even in an RV. Its small capacity matches its compact size, and this mini fridge can store up to 12 bottles.
The Koolatron wine fridge uses a thermoelectric cooling system to keep bottles cool. Its capacity is split evenly between two zones, maintaining bottles at 42 to 55 degrees in the lower section and 55 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit in the upper section. With touch-screen controls on the front of the unit, controlling the fridge temperature doesn’t require opening the door.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Capacity: 12 bottles
- Dimensions: 10 by 20 by 26 inches
Pros
- Very slim design
- Can be used as a countertop unit
- Controls on front of unit
Cons
Get the Koolatron wine cooler on Amazon or Wayfair.
Photo: amazon.com
A countertop wine fridge is ideal for those who want to add wine storage without sacrificing floor space. On the countertop, the fridge is easier to access than on the floor since there’s no need to bend down to grab a bottle.
The compact NutriChef Wine Cooler holds up to 18 bottles, with a six-bottle top section and 12-bottle lower section. The compressor-based system can maintain wines between 41 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit. Contoured polished chrome racks keep wine bottles in place, and a tall bottom shelf allows bottles to stand, whether for displaying or storing opened bottles. This fridge features easy-to-access touch-screen controls on the exterior.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Capacity: 18 bottles
- Dimensions: 16 by 22 by 34 inches
Pros
- Modern appearance
- Freestanding or countertop
- External controls
- Upright storage shelves
Cons
Get the NutriChef wine cooler on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
A multipurpose dual zone wine fridge is the ideal option for those who frequently host and entertain. The Newair Dual Zone Wine and Beverage Fridge features an attractive French door design with two individual sections: one for wine and another for canned beverages.
The wine section stores up to 18 bottles on contoured metal racks, while the beer and beverage section stores up to 60 standard-size cans on flat racks. Users can set the temperature between 41 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit on the wine side and between 36 to 72 degrees for the canned drinks section. With the wide temperature range, users also can store wine on the canned drinks side. This fridge can be installed as either a freestanding or built-in unit.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding/built-in
- Capacity: 18 bottles, 60 cans
- Dimensions: 23.5 by 24 by 34.3 inches
Pros
- French door design
- Wide temperature range
- Adjustable shelving
Cons
Get the Newair 24” wine and beverage fridge at Amazon, Wayfair, or The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
Most dual-zone wine fridges restrict each temperature zone to a certain range (usually a lower temperature upper zone and a higher temperature lower zone). However, in the Ivation 28 Bottle Compressor Wine Cooler Refrigerator, both zones can take advantage of the fridge’s full temperature range. Each can be set between 41 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit.
The compressor-based system and built-in fans help maintain a stable temperature, even within the wide temperature range. An attractive unit with a sleek all-black design, the Ivation features UV-resistant glass, removable racks, touch controls, soft interior lighting, and a built-in lock.
Product Specs
- Type: Freestanding
- Capacity: 28 bottles
- Dimensions: 17 by 17.7 by 33.1 inches
Pros
- Both zones can be set to the full temperature range
- Powerful, stable compressor system
- Attractive all-black finish
Cons
Get the Ivation wine cooler refrigerator at Amazon.
Our Verdict
With a compact size, attractive design, and quiet operation, the Newair 15” Built-in 29 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Fridge is the best dual zone wine fridge for many homes. The Phiestina Dual Zone Wine Cooler Refrigerator is another budget-friendly choice for those looking for an elegant but straightforward unit.
How We Chose the Best Dual Zone Wine Fridges
We considered more than 25 dual zone wine fridges to narrow down the best options for most homes. Personal wine collections vary almost as much as types of wine, so we chose a mix of freestanding and built-in fridges with a range of capacities and sizes to suit different needs.
However, just cooling the wine isn’t enough, so we chose fridges with a range of protective features to maintain wine in optimal storage conditions. We chose wine fridges from reputable brands to ensure the fridge can reliably maintain a stable temperature and environment. Other features we looked for included a useful temperature range, double- or triple-layered UV-protective doors, adjustable shelving, and a sleek design to store wine in a unit that’s as fashionable as it is functional.
FAQs
For serious wine lovers, a dual zone wine fridge is a worthwhile investment. These fridges provide optimal conditions as well as flexibility for serving and storing wines, so wine connoisseurs can make the most of their collection. Keep reading for some frequently asked questions and their answers about choosing and using a dual zone wine fridge.
Q: Why do I need a dual zone wine fridge?
A dual zone wine fridge is a must for those who need two temperature options for storing or serving their wine. Dual zone wine fridges are useful for storing different types of wine or for using one section to bring the wine to serving temperature and the other to keep the wine at its best storage temperature.
Q: What temperature is ideal for what type of wine?
In general, white and red wine should be stored at around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. For important bottles, check with the wine manufacturer for exact temperature recommendations. Serving temperatures depend on the wine type and variety. Many white wines should be served between 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, while experts recommend that red wines are served between 55 to 65 degrees.
Q: Should red wine be stored in a wine fridge?
It’s not necessary to store red wine in a wine fridge, but it is recommended. Red wines should rest in a cool dry place with a consistent suitable temperature (ideally around 55 degrees Fahrenheit). A properly setup wine fridge controls the temperature, humidity, and light exposure to provide the ideal storage conditions for red or white wines.
Q: What is the most reliable wine cooler?
Made for both residential and commercial uses (and with a range of user-friendly features), the Newair 15” Built-in 29 Bottle Dual Zone Wine Fridge is a reliable choice.
Q: Where should I place my wine cooler?
Your wine cooler’s location depends on personal preference. You may want to install it in the kitchen, home bar, dining room, basement, or garage. Place it in the most convenient room for your needs.
Q: Is it possible to store beer in a dual zone wine cooler?
Yes, some dual zone wine coolers include shelving that’s suitable for storing other beverages, including champagne, beer, and canned drinks. Some dual zone wine coolers that reach low enough temperatures can be used as a mini fridge to store other items.
