bit-tech Shopping: Vinotemp TC32-BL 32-Bottle Wine Refrigerator

Rating: 4

Time with product: 2+ Years

Strengths: Compact size, relatively low price.

Weaknesses: Durability.

Summary: Unit was a gift that was purchased at Costco for approximately $350.00. It worked fine ... for about a year and then worked intermittently for another 6 months or so. It is now a 'wine rack'. The warranty is only 12 months on the unit is not 'worth repairing' - it would cost more than it's worth. Sorry, can't recommend this unit.

Rating: 8

Time with product: 3+

Strengths: Attractive cabinet, standard height for under counter installation, holds wine at consistent temperature

Weaknesses: Not a true multi-temp wine holder (though the bottom is coooler for whites and champagne)

Summary: Like the previous poster, we purchased our refrigerator at Costco. We had to take it out the box to transport it home (couldn't fit it upright - required because of refrigerant) and bumped it a few times in the process. We were a little worried that it might not work, but it turned on and started to cool as soon as we plugged it in. We have moved since, and it still works great. We haven't ever had 32 bottles in it, but I guess they'd fit. The shelves are removable to accommodate larger bottles as well. It's the perfect size for us - we love wine, but do not usually have more than 20 bottles of wine and a couple bottles of champagne. If you are looking for something to keep your reds and whites at specific, different temperatures, then this is not for you. The bottom is cooler and it's suggested to keep whites in the lower portion and reds near the top (where it's warmer). If you are just getting into wine and need a solid refrigerator to just keep 15-30 bottles at a generally consistent temp., this may be the ticket. We have been very happy with this purchase.

Rating: 2

Time with product: 3 Years

Strengths: Attractive, nice features such as 3 zone, swith light

Weaknesses: durability.

Summary: I bought my Vinotemp at Costco. It needed a new thermostat after 18 months. Fortunately, I am handy and was able to buy the replacement part and it only cost me less than $50 to fix. That lasted 1 yr, and now the compressor is shot. No more wine refrigeraor. It costs more to fix than worth. I paid $350.00 and it did not last. Compressor warranty is only one year. Other models out there comparably priced have a 5 yr warranty on the compressor.