I am thinking of buying one of those wine preservation units that I can keep on my counter. The ones I am looking at hold 1 or 2 bottles (more than that would be too large) and maintain a cool temperature while preserving the wines. The two I have in mind are the Skybar and the Vinotemp (one uses gas, the other a vacuum). I am leaning towards the Skybar but just read two reviews indicating that it imparts a “plastic taste” on the wine. Does anyone on the board have either positive or negative experiences about either unit? Thanks!
I don’t know anything about them, but to add a third option if interested, i looked into getting one of these last year. Basically what had me leaning this was was I’ve had my eurocave for years with no issues and I just trust the company.
http://www.wineenthusiast.com/eurocave-sowine-home-wine-bar-(silver-trim-door)-(factory-refurbished-b2510151).asp
I have the Eurocave and I like it. Does it work magic, no, does it keep the wine at a good temperature for a day or two - yes. The nice thing about it is each side can have it’s own temperature - (you can only select red or white). I recently looked at the new 1 bottle Skybar - and I didn’t see any real advantage - and I was concerned about the wine being pumped through the tube…
Zach and Virgil – thanks for the help. My concern with the Eurocave is that you have to take the bottle out every time you want to pour it and that exposes it to oxygen. Not a huge deal, but I think repeated exposure to air and then re-pumping the air out probably takes a little bit of life out of the wine.
I have a one bottle skybar.
It definitely has a cool gadget factor. I found it best to set the temperature at the lowest setting, regardless of the wine.
If I kept a Cabernet at 55, it started to turn on day 2 or 3. On a colder setting, it lasts at least 5 days. When I use a $10 vacuvin and store the wine in the fridge, it lasts 7-10 days for me.
I don’t find a problem with the plastic line. I can’t taste any plastic residue. I simply clean it superficially with water when changing the bottles, but flush with the next bottle of wine.
It is easier, but I also think it is better to flush with what you are going to drink, as it is better than water.
Not sure it’s worth the money to me, but it was a gift.
Hope this helps.
Bob
The Sowine is pretty good, does the job, will keep whites for 6-7 days no problems, and is good value for the money…