This overall score is made up of our fluctuation (35%), uniformity (35%), ambient (20%) and temperature accuracy (10%) scores.

We check the fridge's capacity to maintain an internal temperature of 12°C when the external conditions range from 10°C to 40°C.

We measure temperature fluctuations to see if the wine fridge can maintain a steady temperature over the short term as the cooling system cycles.

We check if compartment temperatures are generally uniform, without warmer or colder areas.

We measure how much energy the wine fridge consumes, which you can compare against the manufacturer's claim.

Fridges make a combination of noises that some people may find annoying. More noise is produced when the compressor starts up. Some models also have an external fan system to help keep the compressor cool, which can add to the noise level. The design of your home and the fridge's location will affect what you'll hear. Our test tells you which models are noisier during normal running.

We recommend currently available models with an overall score of 75% or higher.

The manufacturer's recommended retail price.

Based on the running costs over 10 years and assuming the fridge is full to its maximum capacity. If you don't fill the fridge, it'll cost you more per bottle.

The running costs over 10 years is calculated using a rate of 30c/kWh. A 10-year period gives a good indication of the long-term differences between high and low energy use.

Refers to the storage shelf layout. Interweaving means bottles are laid out top to tail to make most efficient use of space. Single interweave means each shelf holds one layer of bottles - it's safest and easiest to use. Bulk interweave means you can stack two or three rows of bottles to a shelf to maximise capacity, but this can make it harder to get an individual bottle out, and you risk damaging the labels.

Most wine fridge doors are made of glass, however some have solid doors to keep out UV light that may degrade the wine.

With some models you'll have to pre-order the door to open to the left or right. Some models have reversible doors, and although you may be able to do this yourself, manufacturers recommend getting a service call. Reversible doors are useful if you move house and/or need to reposition the fridge.

R Opens to the right only (ie hinge is on the right).

Rev Reversible.

R or L Can be pre-ordered to open to the right or left.

Whether the controls are digital or analog.

The maximum height of the wine fridge. For best performance allow 10cm clearance on top for air to circulate.

The maximum depth of the wine fridge. For best performance allow 5cm clearance at the rear for air to circulate.

The maximum width of the wine fridge. For best performance allow 5cm clearance either side for air to circulate.

Warranty doesn't differ much between manufacturers, with most offering a two-year warranty

There is a claimed origin somewhere on the model itself. This should be taken with a grain of salt, given it's rare that all the materials for a product came from the one country.

Although champagne is not generally for keeping over a long period, most wine fridges can get them to serving temperature. This feature means that the shelving can fit standard dimension champagne bottles on at least some shelves, however total capacity may be reduced.

Is the wine fridge capable of changing temperatures throughout its compartment? Not to be confused with multi-zone wine fridges.

Makes it easier to move wine fridges about.

Whether the wine fridge has a key lock to prevent unauthorised access, such as for a restaurant out of hours.

Ideally your wine fridge should be located in a dark part of your house. An internal light helps you find the bottle you're looking for more easily.

Some wine fridges have a humidity control system that helps maintain your corks by keeping humidity at an optimum level (generally around 70%).

Child lock controls prevent curious young fingers from inadvertently changing the settings on your wine fridge.

Extracts any of the smells that may infect the cork and make their way into that priceless bottle you've laid away.