A built-in wine fridge is an essential addition for wine enthusiasts who want to store their collection at the perfect temperature while maintaining a sleek, integrated look in their kitchen, bar, or entertainment space. Unlike freestanding models, built-in wine fridges are designed for seamless installation within cabinetry, offering a sophisticated and space-efficient solution.
Whether you're a casual wine drinker or a serious collector, understanding the key features, installation considerations, and best options on the market will help you make an informed decision as you choose the best built in wine fridge for your home. Join us we compare wine fridges for every level of collector.
Discover the Best Built-In Wine Fridge Deals
Enjoy every sip at the perfect temeprature with a reliable built-in wine frige from Fred's Appliance.
Shop Built-In Wine FridgesThe Difference Between a Built In vs Freestanding Wine Fridge
When deciding which wine fridge to buy one of the first decisions to make is whether to go with a built-in or freestanding model. A built-in wine fridge is designed to fit seamlessly within cabinetry, under counters, or in custom installations, offering a clean and smooth look. In contrast, a freestanding wine fridge is a standalone unit that requires proper ventilation and space around it to function efficiently.
When to Choose a Built-In Wine Fridge
Built-in wine fridges are perfect for homeowners who want a streamlined kitchen, entertaining, or bar area. One of the best things is that built-in wine fridges come in a variety of styles. Under-counter built-in wine fridges fit perfectly under countertops, inside kitchen islands, or within cabinets, making them a stylish and space-efficient solution. The best built in wine cooler options feature front ventilation, preventing overheating and making sure your investment will last a long time.
Pros and Cons of Built-In Wine Coolers
Built-in wine coolers offer a range of benefits that make them a preferred choice for many homeowners.
Pros
Clean Presentation
Built in wine coolers seamlessly integrate kitchen or bar spaces and enhance the overall aesthetic, providing a polished and high-end look.
Space-Effcient
Built in wine fridges save valuable floor space, making them ideal for smaller kitchens or entertainment areas.
Wide Variety of Looks
There are various options to match aesthetics, including under-counter built-in wine fridges, built-in tall wine fridge models, and built in panel ready wine fridge options.
Cons
High Upfront Cost
Built in wine fridges are pricier than freestanding models due to their specialized design and installation requirements.
Professional Installation Required
Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper ventilation and fit, which adds to the overall cost.
They Come with Limitations
Additionally, built-in units lack the flexibility of freestanding models, making them harder to relocate if needed.
Learn More: 8 Best Refrigerator Brands
Good to Know: Built-In Wine Fridge Costs
Built-in wine coolers tend to be pricier than freestanding models due to their design, ventilation system, and integration into cabinetry. So, just how much more does a built in wine fridge cost? On average, integrated wine fridges costs between $1,000 and $5,000, depending on brand, size, and features.
Installation Costs
The cost of installing a built-in wine fridge depends on factors like the location, complexity, and professional labor costs. For a basic under-counter built-in wine fridge, installation can range from $200 to $500, while integrating a wine cooler into a kitchen island may cost $300 to $700. More complex custom cabinetry installations can be pricier, running anywhere from $500 to $1,500, depending on the required modifications and materials.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
While some homeowners may attempt a DIY installation, we recommend using professionals. Professionals will be able to make sure your fridge has all the ventilation it needs, the electrical wiring is correct, and the fit is perfect. If you take a risk and improperly install your wine cooler, it can lead to overheating, inefficient cooling (which could ruin your wine), or make your warranty useless.
What to Look for in a Wine Fridge
Regardless of the style, size, or even brand, there are core features shoppers need to keep in mind while comparing wine coolers. The following criteria will help you narrow down your choices.
Single-Zone vs. Dual-Zone Wine Coolers
Two of the biggest terms you’ll come across while exploring wine coolers are single zone and dual zone temperature management.
A single-zone wine fridge maintains a uniform temperature throughout, making it suitable for storing a single variety of wine, but models with single temperature management are not recommended for storing various types of wine. On the other hand, a built-in dual-zone wine fridge features independent temperature settings, making it ideal for collectors with diverse wine selections.
Learn More: The Built-In Look: Cabinet Depth French Door Refrigerator Guide
Wine Cooler Capacity
The last thing any wine collector wants is upgrading to a dedicated storing solutions and not having enough room to store every bottle. Here’s a breakdown:
- Small Built In Wine Fridge: Holds 12-25 bottles, perfect for casual wine drinkers or compact spaces.
- Standard Built In Wine Fridge: Holds 30-50 bottles, great for medium-sized collections.
- Large Built In Wine Fridge: Holds 50+ bottles, ideal for collectors and entertainers.
Built In Wine Fridge Sizes
Leveling-up to a built in wine cooler requires some planning. After all, purchasing a model that doesn’t fit the cutout in your kitchen either means cutting into cabinetry to make space (which is an added cost and reduces how much usable cabinet space there is) or returning the current model and purchasing the right size.
Always measure for a wine fridge twice before making a purchase—then you can move on to choosing the model that fits your kitchen’s space.
- 18” Built-In Wine Fridge: This is a compact option for small kitchens, apartments, or bar areas and is perfect for buyers who need just a small selection of wines stored at the right temperature. These models are six inches narrower than a standard dishwasher.
- 24” Built-In Wine Fridge: A common size that balances storage and space efficiency, making it ideal for homeowners who enjoy entertaining without taking up too much space. These wine fridges are the same width as a standard dishwasher.
- 30” Built-In Wine Fridge: Models this wide provide even greater capacity for larger wine collections while still maintaining an integrated look within kitchen cabinetry. They stand the same width as a standard stove.
Top Built-In Wine Fridge Reviews for Collectors
Curious which wine fridge is the best? It all comes down to every collector’s personal collection size, wine preferences, and budget. With that said, the following top rated wine fridges are a great place to start your search. Discover all the great features and designs to make your collection feels special—no matter big or small.
KitchenAid 4.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Wine Cooler
Shop This KitchenAid Wine Fridge
This sleek, stainless steel wine fridge is perfect for modern kitchens. With room for up to 14 bottles, this built in dual zone wine fridge maintains optimal temperatures for both reds and whites. The UV-protected glass door keeps your collection safe from light exposure, while LED lighting elegantly showcases your wines.
⭐Featured KitchenAid KUBL214KSB Review:
“A great bar fridge. One of the few around that keeps beer and soft drinks nice an cold on the top. Wine is great on the bottom. The two sections are sealed from each other when the door is closed.”
Thermador Freedom 24” Panel-Ready Wine Cooler
Shop This Thermador Wine Fridge
Designed for seamless integration, the Thermador T24IW905SP built in panel ready wine fridge offers a sophisticated look with soft-close shelves and UV-resistant glass doors. The dual-zone cooling system keeps your collection at the perfect temperature, while the vibration control technology preserves the integrity of your wines. This full-scale model was made for seasoned collectors, providing space to display up to 92 bottles upon wooden racks, which not only look stylish, but also help reduce harmful vibration.
Bertazzoni Professional Series 18” Panel-Ready Built-In Wine Cooler
Shop This Bertazzoni Wine Fridge
A narrow built-in wine fridge perfect for tight spaces, this Bertazzoni model features precision temperature control, a panel-ready design for a custom finish, and anti-vibration technology to keep your wines in pristine condition. It also has a prominent display section so you can beautifully show off your collection. This fridge is also fully Wi-Fi capable and will let you monitor your fridge from anywhere.
Gaggenau 24” Stainless Steel Wine Cooler
Shop This Gaggenau Wine Fridge
A high-end option for serious collectors, the Gaggenau RW404761 features dual temperature zones, beautiful LED lighting, and precision cooling. Its sleek stainless steel design enhances any luxury kitchen or wine cellar. This refrigerator is outfitted with a soft-closing door system and a secure lock. The activated charcoal air filter will keep your fridge clean and your wine safe—all 34 of them elegantly cradled on wooden racks.
Monogram 5.5 Cu. Ft. Panel-Ready Wine Cooler
Shop This Monogram Wine Fridge
This built-in wine fridge is designed for serious collectors, featuring a 57-bottle capacity, dual temperature zones, and an advanced cooling system. Its panel-ready design means you have the power to give it a unique design that blends seamlessly with your cabinetry for a custom look. The door also comes with a reversible door swing, making it easy to fit into whatever space you have in mind.
Perlick Signature Series 15” Left Hinge Wine Cooler
An excellent choice for compact spaces, this small built in wine fridge features whisper-quiet cooling, UV-resistant glass, and precision temperature control, ensuring every bottle is preserved at its best. You can choose a stainless steel or a custom panel finish to make it the perfect addition to any space. This fridge has also achieved a UL rating and is approved for outdoor use.
Sub-Zero Designer Series 24” Panel-Ready Undercounter Wine Storage
Shop This Sub-Zero Wine Fridge
A luxury under counter built in wine fridge, this Sub-Zero unit offers dual-zone cooling, advanced humidity control, and a sleek, panel-ready finish to blend into your kitchen or bar area. It also comes with an inventory tile solution, so your collection will be perfectly organized. Put your collection proudly on display inside its beautiful rack system with enough room to store 42 bottles.
U-Line Modular 3000 Series 36” Wine Captain Wine Cooler
This large built in wine fridge model provides flexible storage, dual-zone cooling, and a sophisticated design. Its modular shelving system allows for easy organization of different bottle sizes. The black interior has theater-style LED lighting that can be programmed with different lighting timers for a touch of drama to fit the mood.
Refined palates call for elevated wine storage that keeps every seasonal variety at peak flavor. With our wide selection of built-in wine coolers at Fred’s Appliance, you can add selecting the perfect pair for your collection to your skill set with the help of our experts who are ready to answer all your wine fridge questions. Stop by to see our top picks for yourself or to browse our full built-in wine fridge catalog to treat your set to ideal temperature and storage settings.
Why Trust Fred’s Appliance?
Fred's Appliance is the go-to store for all your appliance needs in the inland Northwest area. Established in 1962, Fred's Appliance has been serving customers for over five decades and counting. With an experienced and knowledgeable staff, Fred's provides a welcoming atmosphere that helps customers find the best product to fit their needs, budget, and lifestyle.
When you shop with Fred's Appliance, you can be sure that you're getting the best brands at the best prices. In our store, you will find a variety of refrigerators, ranges, wall ovens, cooktops, dishwashers, and more. We also carry washers and dryers in both front-load and top-load styles. Not only are we dedicated to providing an unbeatable selection of appliances, but we are equally committed to the local community. We proudly support many charitable organizations throughout Washington, Idaho, and Montana. When you shop at Fred's Appliance, you're not only getting a great product but helping out your neighbors too!
Shop Wine Fridges at Fred’s Appliance
If you're looking for a great appliance shopping experience, shop refrigerators online or visit one of our showrooms in Washington, Idaho, or Montana to see what a difference buying locally with an experienced retailer makes. Our appliance experts will be happy to help you with pick the right built in wine fridge for your collection. Contact us today and discover the perfect appliance for your home.
Learn More: The Best Wine Fridge Brands and Models Reviewed