ATP: Building a basement wine cellar

[captruss24]

Anyone on here ever built a basement wine cellar? I've got the perfect space to do this project, but don't know if its worth going overboard (i.e. spending $3-5k) for a non-serious wine collecter. I love red wine, but generally don't buy expensive bottles. My goal is to buy good values and age them properly.

From what I've read online, you have to create a moisture barrier and have near perfect temp control....which can get pricey. We are in the process of building a house, so its the perfect time for me to start this project. Basically do the costs justify the means or is it almost impractical maintaining the perfect 55F/70% humidity environment?

 

[DaDeacs]

I would say just buy a 3 or 4 big wine refrigerators (like $250-$400). A cellar is going to be costly - I would assume even for a small one you are probably looking at least $5k. A cellar would be cool if you wanted to be a full on collector or thought it would help your house value, but it isn't really worth it if you just want to be a modest collector.

If you aren't in a rush, look around at places like TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Homegoods, they usually get a few of the bigger wine fridges throughout the year and they can be a steal.