Advice on Vinotemp VT-188 sought

WINE TALK
1

Thinking of putting one in the kitchen. Any of you have experience/reviews (good or bad) on this model?

TIA and Happy New Year!
Ramon

2

I’m looking at this model from Costco right now. Anyone have one? Comments?

3

Ryan - I got one and it’s been functioning quite nicely. I intend to use it for short term storage. It fits 11 to 12 bottles each rack depending on bottle size. Send me a PM if you want more info.

4

I own this one, also purchased from Costco.

I have two problems:

  • Noise - I have it freestanding in my dining room next to a china cabinet and the corner. I have hardwood floors and when it comes on you can hear it clearly and uncomfortably. I have seen on other boards the same complaint. If you were to build a sound insulated cabinet for it, it might come in handy and solve the issue I am experiencing.
  • Rack size - for pinot bottles and larger cabs, the racks end up being to close together in all dimensions width, depth and height. I end up getting fewer bottles and some label damage.

I want to get another large, pretty fridge for my dining room, but would not go with vinotemp.

Cheers,
Faust

5

Thanks to both of you for the input. What would you recommend if not vinotemp? n’finity?

6

For quiet operation, I believe EuroCave is king. Plus most models from EC regulate humidity - something that none of the Vinotemps do.

I owned a VT for a few years (one of the big 300 bottle monolithic cabinets), an it was LOUD when on. I think any unit with a normal compressor that cycles on and off will be the same. The EuroCave is built more like a kitchen refrigerator.

7

Hi Ramon,

We’re happy you’re considering a Vinotemp. I apologize for the long post, but I wanted to help answer a few of your questions… and respond to some of the comments here…

You mention you’re considering the 188 (VT-188MSW) from Costco. That’s a great model and we’ve been receiving some positive very positive feedback on it. (See a few reviews online at Beverage Factory another store carrying that model: http://www.beveragefactory.com/wine/wine/dualzone/vinotemp_VT-188-MSW_wine_cellar.shtml)

Noise: Generally, we’d say the VT-188 models make about as much noise as a refrigerator, but the exact environment may make a difference. Different models may be different. Mike commented an old 300 bottle cabinet was very noisy. Please note, that’s a wood wine cabinet and thus built/cooled completed different than a VT-188 cooler.

Humidity & Eurocaves: If you’re looking for humidity control from Vinotemp products, check out our new HTD cooling units (for wood wine cabinets) as they are able to adjust humidity.

Also, I hear props being given to the EuroCaves. Understandably, we love them too. Many people don’t know that Vinotemp has a new line of cabinets (VinoCellier) that have the same cooling/humidity system and operational capacity as the EuroCaves… they’re even made in Europe and are virtually just like the originals. It comes in two models of which I believe Costco is carrying one of them right now if you’re interested.

As a side note: I see you’re located in the OC, which isn’t too far from us. We have the model being sold at Costco (VT-188MSW) AND a VT-188 model with gliding metal/wood trim shelves (VT-188MBSH) running in our showroom right now. You’re welcome to stop by and have a look (17621 S. Susana Rd, Rancho Dominguez, CA 90221). Otherwise, if you have any questions, please let us know! 1-800-777-8466

Thanks!