This project was built and designed by Mike from Oregon Makers, showcasing how you can create a stylish and practical storage solution for your wine collection.
In addition to building the racking system, Mike also created two helpful installation guides—one for a standard cellar installation and another specifically designed for spaces under stairs, which you’ll find linked at the bottom of this article.
If you’re interested in woodworking projects that add value and charm to your home, be sure to check out Mike’s YouTube channel, Oregon Makers.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Mike’s channel:
Why Build a Custom Wine Rack?
Creating your own wine cellar rack allows you to maximize your storage space and showcase your wine collection beautifully. Mike’s custom design specifically accommodates standard 750ml wine bottles, ensuring secure storage and attractive presentation.
This racking system not only provides easy access to your favorite wines but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your cellar or entertaining area. Building it yourself gives you full control over the design and allows customization to fit your unique space perfectly.
Mike’s Custom Wine Rack Design
Mike designed the wine rack with both function and aesthetics in mind, combining vertical and horizontal supports. The layout includes a prominently angled display shelf, positioned at a 15-degree angle, perfect for highlighting special bottles while providing additional storage underneath.
Strategically planned spacing between supports ensures the bottles remain secure, while the dimensions are carefully tailored to make the best use of available cellar space. This thoughtful approach allows efficient use of materials and maximizes storage potential.
Preparing the Jig
An essential part of this project is creating a custom jig that helps maintain consistent spacing and alignment when assembling the rack components. Mike constructed this jig using simple scrap materials, making it a cost-effective yet invaluable tool throughout the build process.
The jig accurately holds the vertical pieces evenly spaced, ensuring each bottle slot is consistent and securely fitted. Using this jig significantly simplifies the assembly, guaranteeing a professional-looking final product.
Cutting and Preparing Components
Mike began by cutting the wood down to appropriate lengths for the vertical and horizontal supports, primarily utilizing a table saw. Careful measurement and patience during this step ensured each component was accurately sized for optimal alignment and strength.
Smaller slats were also created from leftover material to secure individual bottles in place. These slats are crucial in preventing bottles from tipping or shifting, providing additional stability to the overall structure.
Assembling the Wine Rack Units
With all pieces cut and ready, Mike moved on to assembling the racking units. Horizontal slats were attached securely to the vertical supports using a finish nailer, ensuring a tight and stable fit throughout the build.
Attention to detail was key, as Mike continually checked each piece for proper alignment and squareness. Adding diagonal supports further strengthened the frame, creating a robust and professional-looking wine rack.
Building the Cascade Rack
In addition to the standard wine racks, Mike included a cascading rack in the design. This double-sided feature offered additional storage space and provided an eye-catching display, with bottles sloping downward from back to front.
This cascade design not only maximizes storage capacity but also adds visual interest, turning the rack into an elegant focal point in the wine cellar. Its thoughtful layout makes selecting bottles easy and visually appealing.
Installation and Finishing Touches
Once the individual units were completed, Mike carefully installed the racks within the cellar. He positioned each unit slightly away from the walls using ledgers to ensure proper airflow, critical for preserving the wine’s quality.
This small gap also added stability and a polished appearance to the installation. The finished racking system provided not only practical storage but also a stylish upgrade that enhanced the overall aesthetic of the space.
Additional Installation Guides from Mike
After building your wine rack, the next important step is the installation process. Mike provides detailed installation guides covering both standard wine cellar setups and specialized installations, such as under-stair cellars.
The standard cellar installation video provides essential tips on positioning, securing, and organizing your newly built wine racks. The under-stairs installation guide addresses the unique challenges and opportunities of transforming these tight spaces into beautiful, functional wine storage.
Why You’ll Love This Project
Building your own custom wine rack offers many advantages, from tailored design to personalized functionality. Mike’s project demonstrates how simple woodworking techniques can create an impressive and highly practical home feature.
Beyond practicality, this project adds character and sophistication to any home wine cellar or entertainment area. It’s a rewarding DIY build that will continue to impress guests and enhance your wine experience for years to come.
Ready to See the Full Build and Installation Videos?
Watch Mike’s full video and subscribe to his channel: