Wine Temps

[AZMATT]

I am a newbie to the board and to wine. I know nothing about wines so any help you can give would be much appreciated. I have just purchsed a 30 wine refrigerator.
1. Can I keep both reds and whites in the frige? And what temp should I keep the fridge at?
2. Any recommendations on good reds and whites to keep on hand for guests that will keep for a year, two maybe more around the $20-$50 dollar range?

Thanks
Matt in AZ

[Innkeeper]

Hi Azmatt, and welcome to the Wine Board. Yes, you can keep all wines in your cooler. I would keep it at around 65 degrees F. If you can control the humidity, would keep it around 65 too. This means that whites, rose's, and sparklers will have to be chilled further before serving. Reds can be removed and opened right away. As far as what wines to keep that is up to you. What I like, may not be what you and your friends like. If you want to try a variety of wines, their are two excellent wineries that you can get mixed cases from that I deal with regularly. They are Easton/Terra Rouge (209-245-3117; terouge@volcano.net); and Tobin James (805-239-2204; fax 805-239-4471). Easton is in the Sierra Foothills, and TJ is in Paso Robles. A wonderful source of Italian and sparkling wine (including Champagne) is Wine Expo in Santa Monica (1-800-WINE EXPO). For wines from below the equator contact Southern Hemisphere Wine Center in Huntington Beach, CA (1-800-504 WINE; www.southernwines.com). They have wines from Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Argentina, South Africa, and elsewhere. That will give you access to most of the wine I drink, and hopefully you can find somethings you like too.