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ask dr. vinny

Hello there! I'm Dr. Vinifera, or "Vinny" for short. Ask me your toughest wine questions, from the technical aspects of winemaking to the fine points of etiquette. I hope you find my answers educational and even amusing. Looking for a particular answer? Check my archive and my FAQs.

Dear Dr. Vinny,

I enjoyed your article “Cellaring Basics 101.” I live in Las Vegas where the humidity is low, and I am concerned with the lack of humidity in my cellar. After speaking with a friend who is a well-known Master Sommelier, I have placed a large bowl of water in the bottom of my cellar. That is something you have also recommended. I don’t think that is sufficient.

You mentioned using desktop humidifiers. I have inquired about them at several major wine stores and was unsuccessful in my search. Can you direct me where I can acquire one?

—Richard O., Las Vegas

Dear Richard,

Sure. Go to your favorite search engine and type in “desktop humidifier,” and you should find several options. I’m looking at a basic one right now for less than $30, but there’s one about twice that price that doesn’t need a filter and looks like it may be quieter.

If you’re not a fan of Internet shopping, I’d recommend checking a retail store that sells small appliances. Since these humidifiers aren’t designed specifically for wine cellars, I’m not surprised you couldn’t find any in a specialty wine shop.

—Dr. Vinny

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