As U.S. Interest in Wine Matures, So Grows the Market For More StorageVintage Appeal

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Other manufacturers report similar interest in this 24-inch size and configuration. Dacor's Epicure WineSteward features two equal compartments. Even

Marvel, the 20-year veteran and proponent of single-zone units for the optimum long-term storage environment, is set to concede to customer demand by adding a 24-inch undercounter dual-zone wine cellar to its Chateau collection. The unit, which sports a black interior and unobtrusive behind-the-door digital controls, "is for maintaining serving temperatures," says vice president of sales Gerry Reda. "You still need a wine preservation unit."

Among single-temperature models, the Ariston Cantina Vino is unique in that it integrates flush with the cabinetry thanks to a drop-in design that sits under a counter and on a base to allow for a contiguous kick.

This sort of build-in ability is essential to designer Robin Pittman of Design Galleria in Atlanta. "The key element is not only that the product functions, but also that the unit accepts a custom panel to be fully integrated. Our clients come to us looking for a kitchen that blends seamlessly with the rest of the home," she says. "Most often, I specify Sub-Zero or U-Line wine units, and they are placed in a bar or entertaining area rather than in the kitchen."

To suit such custom installations, the U-Line échelon Wine Captain drawer is available with an overlay option as well as a stainless steel frame in addition to de rigueur appointments common to the best of the bunch. These include UV- and vibration-resistance, easy-access bottle-cradling racks, precise digital controls, interior lighting, and 50 percent humidity.

Integration often translates into the buyer selecting a suite of coordinating appliances, claims developer Juliann Bergano of New York City-based Urban Residential, citing that potential condo buyers are more brand-savvy than even three years ago. "We've been very thoughtful about marrying the wine cooler with the refrigerator as far as design and manufacturer," she says. "In a recent project, we are using a whole Viking refrigeration package, both the refrigerator and wine cooler."