Is It Safe to Ship Wine in Hot Weather?

May 31, 2025by David Bachus

Short answer: Not really - unless you take the right precautions.

Shipping wine in hot weather can damage the bottle, ruin its flavor, and destroy its long-term value. But if done carefully, it can be done.

Here’s what you need to know.

Why Heat Is a Problem for Wine

Wine is sensitive to temperature swings. When it gets too hot - especially above 75°F (24°C) - it can:

  • Cook the wine: Heat causes chemical changes that flatten aromas and mute flavors. Think stewed fruit instead of fresh.

  • Push out the cork: Heat expands the liquid inside the bottle, which can force the cork upward or cause leaks. Once the seal is compromised, oxygen can enter the bottle, which accelerates aging and can lead to oxidation or premature spoilage.

  • Damage the label or capsule: Even cosmetic damage affects resale value for collectible bottles.

Shipping wine in summer without protection is a gamble.

How Hot Is Too Hot to Ship Wine?

If the temperature along the shipping route is above 75°F (24°C) for more than a few hours, wine is at risk. If it’s above 85°F (29°C) - even briefly - the risk of irreversible damage increases dramatically.

What Are the Signs That Wine Was Heat-Damaged?

  • A sticky or leaking cork

  • Wine seeping through the capsule

  • A wine that tastes flat, dull, or overly jammy

  • A cork that’s pushed out of the neck

  • Unusual or “cooked” aromas (think prunes or baked fruit)

Tips for Safely Shipping Wine in Warm Weather

✅ Use Overnight or Express Shipping
The less time your wine is in a hot truck or warehouse, the better.

✅ Request Hold at FedEx/UPS Location
Instead of risking a failed delivery attempt, have your wine held at a temperature-controlled pickup spot.

✅ Use Cold Chain or Temperature-Controlled Shipping
For high-value bottles, this is essential. It’s slower but far safer.

✅ Avoid Shipping Before Weekends or Holidays
You don’t want your wine sitting in a hot warehouse for 2+ days.

✅ Consider Ice Packs or Insulated Shippers
Some sellers (like us at Weekend Wine) offer summer-safe packaging for added protection.

What Should You Do Instead of Shipping in the Summer?

Hold for cooler weather.
Many retailers (including Weekend Wine) will store your bottles for free until it’s safe to ship. You get peace of mind and pristine wine.

Bottom Line: Should You Ship Wine in Summer?

If you’re buying wine to collect, resell, or age - don’t risk it.
If you must ship, use overnight, cold chain, or request a retailer hold it until fall.

👉 At Weekend Wine, we offer free summer storage and white-glove shipping options to make sure your bottles arrive in perfect condition.
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