Best Under-Bench Beer & Wine Fridge Australia 2026

KingCave
2026-04-16T17:19:35+10:00

If you’re serious about entertaining at home or running a venue, finding the best beer wine fridge under bench is a game-changer. Whether you’re fitting out a new kitchen, upgrading your man cave, or building a commercial bar, a quality under-bench dual zone fridge keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature and your space looking sharp. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for Australian conditions?

Let’s cut through the noise and get stuck into what makes a great under-bench beer and wine fridge, with a close look at the Schmick JC165 range—two models that stand out for reliability, smart design, and features tailored for Aussie homes and venues. If you want to see the full specs or check current pricing, jump straight to the Schmick JC165 Dual Zone Bar Fridge page.

Why Go for an Under-Bench Beer & Wine Fridge?

Under-bench fridges are the unsung heroes of home entertaining and hospitality. They slot neatly under your counter, save precious floor space, and keep your drinks within arm’s reach. But the real magic is in dual zone models: you can chill your beers icy cold in one section, while keeping your wines at the optimal sipping temperature in the other. No more compromises, no more lukewarm Chardonnay or frozen lagers.

In Australia, where entertaining outdoors and in open-plan kitchens is the norm, an under-bench fridge isn’t just a luxury—it’s a practical upgrade. But not all fridges are up to the task. You need something that handles our climate, runs quietly, and looks the part in a modern space. That’s where the Schmick JC165 series comes in.

Meet the Schmick JC165 Series: Built for Aussie Entertaining

The Schmick JC165 and its sibling, the JC165B, are both designed specifically for under-bench installation in indoor settings. They’re not just about looks—they’re engineered for performance and reliability, with features that make them a standout choice for anyone searching for the best beer wine fridge under bench in Australia.

Quick Specs Overview

Capacity: 165 litres (up to 90 cans)

Dimensions (W x D x H): 750mm x 570mm x 865mm

Zones: Dual zone (separate controls for beer and wine)

Noise: 43 dB (quiet enough for living areas)

Power Consumption: 1.23 kW/24hrs

Ambient Rating: Up to 32°C (suitable for most Aussie homes)

Hinge: 1 x Left & 1 x Right (double door, opens both ways)

Lockable: Yes (keep your stash safe)

Front Venting: Yes (designed for built-in installation)

Let’s break down what these specs mean in real-world terms, and how the JC165 and JC165B compare.

JC165 vs JC165B: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature | Schmick JC165 | Schmick JC165B
Capacity (litres) | 165 | 165
Can Capacity | 90 | 90
Dimensions (W x D x H mm) | 750 x 570 x 865 | 750 x 570 x 865
Weight (kg) | 61.0 | 61.0
Noise (dB) | 43 | 43
Power Consumption | 1.23 kW/24hrs | 1.23 kW/24hrs
Max Ambient Temp (°C) | 32 | 32
Location | Indoor | Indoor
Hinge | 1 x Left & 1 x Right | 1 x Left & 1 x Right
Lockable | Yes | Yes
Body Colour | Black | Black
Interior Finish | Black Molded Plastic | Molded black
Adjustable Feet | 4 | 4
Key Feature | Stainless steel doors with Low E glass | Tempered LOW E glass
Price (AUD) | $1,437 | $1,567

What’s the Difference?

At first glance, the JC165 and JC165B are nearly identical. Both offer the same capacity, dimensions, power consumption, and core features. The main differences come down to the finish and glass:

JC165: Features stainless steel doors with Low E glass and a black moulded plastic interior. This model is a solid all-rounder for most home and hospitality settings.

JC165B: Uses tempered LOW E glass and a slightly different interior finish (moulded black). The difference is subtle, but some buyers may prefer the look or feel of the JC165B, especially if matching existing cabinetry or appliances.

Both models are lockable, vent from the front (crucial for under-bench installs), and use quiet fans to keep noise to a minimum—ideal for open-plan kitchens or living areas.

Key Features That Matter for Aussies

Dual Zone Control: Beer & Wine, Sorted

The real drawcard here is dual zone control. Each fridge has two separate compartments with independent electronic controls. That means you can set one side for crisp beers (think 2-4°C) and the other for reds or whites (typically 8-18°C, depending on your taste). No more arguing over fridge settings or serving wine at the wrong temperature.

This flexibility is perfect for mixed households, entertainers, or anyone who likes to keep a varied drinks selection on hand. If you’re running a small bar or café, it’s a no-brainer—you can offer perfectly chilled beers and wines without needing two separate fridges.

Front Venting: True Under-Bench Installation

Not all fridges are built for under-bench use. The Schmick JC165 series vents at the front through a grill, so you can build it into your cabinetry without worrying about overheating or voiding your warranty. This is a must for modern kitchens and bar setups, where every millimetre counts and you want a seamless look.

Quiet Operation: Entertain Without the Hum

At 43 dB, both models are quiet enough for living spaces. For context, that’s about the noise level of a soft conversation or a library. You won’t be shouting over the fridge during dinner or movie night, and it won’t disturb guests in an open-plan area.

Lockable Doors: Keep Your Collection Safe

Both models come with lockable doors—a feature that’s often overlooked until you need it. Whether you’ve got curious kids, housemates with sticky fingers, or you’re running a venue, being able to lock up your drinks is a real plus.

Low E Glass: Reduces Condensation

Australian humidity can wreak havoc on glass-fronted fridges, leading to unsightly condensation. The JC165’s stainless steel doors with Low E glass, and the JC165B’s tempered LOW E glass, are designed to help prevent condensation. That means your fridge stays looking sharp, and you don’t have to constantly wipe down the doors.

Energy Use: What Will It Cost to Run?

Both models use 1.23 kW/24hrs. At an average Australian electricity rate of $0.30–$0.35 per kWh, you’re looking at roughly $0.37–$0.43 per day to run. That’s a small price to pay for perfectly chilled drinks, especially if you entertain regularly or run a business. For the latest specs and any updates, always check the product page.

Practical Considerations for Your Space

Will It Fit?

With a width of 750mm, depth of 570mm, and height of 865mm, the JC165 series is designed to slide neatly under most standard Australian benches. Always measure your space (including ventilation clearance) before buying, and remember to account for the door swing—these models have one left-opening and one right-opening door, so you get easy access from both sides.

Capacity: How Much Can You Store?

Both models hold up to 90 cans (based on standard 375ml cans) or a mix of bottles and cans. The dual zone layout makes it easy to separate beer, wine, soft drinks, or mixers. For most households, that’s enough for a big weekend BBQ, a family gathering, or steady use in a small bar or café.

Installation Tips

Front Venting: Because these fridges vent at the front, you can build them flush into cabinetry. Just make sure the front grill isn’t blocked.

Adjustable Feet: Both models have four adjustable feet, so you can level the fridge even on uneven floors.

Indoor Use Only: These are rated for indoor use, with a max ambient temperature of 32°C. For alfresco or outdoor kitchens, you’ll want a fridge rated for higher temps.

Who Should Buy the Schmick JC165 Series?

If you’re after the best beer wine fridge under bench for an Australian home, man cave, or small venue, the JC165 and JC165B tick all the boxes:

Home Entertainers: Keep a selection of drinks at the perfect temperature for family and friends.

Man Caves & She Sheds: Upgrade your retreat with a fridge that looks sharp and performs.

Small Bars & Cafés: Offer a range of drinks without taking up extra space or running multiple units.

Renovators: Seamlessly integrate a dual zone fridge into your new kitchen or bar design.

If you’re after something for outdoor use, or need a different size or finish, check the product page for the latest options and recommendations.

What Sets Schmick Apart?

Schmick fridges are known for their reliability and thoughtful design. The JC165 series is no exception—built for Australian conditions, with features that make life easier for real users. The dual zone control, quiet operation, and lockable doors are all features you’ll appreciate every day, not just on paper.

And because they’re designed for under-bench installation, you get a seamless, professional look that adds value to your home or business. The Low E glass is a practical touch for our humid climate, and the adjustable feet make installation a breeze.

How to Choose: JC165 or JC165B?

Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either. The choice mostly comes down to personal preference on the door and interior finish, and your budget. The JC165 is a touch more affordable, while the JC165B offers a slightly different glass and interior finish. Both are built to last, and both deliver on the promise of a true dual zone under-bench fridge.

If you’re still unsure, check the Schmick JC165 Dual Zone Bar Fridge page for more details, photos, and up-to-date specs.

Real-World Scenarios: How Aussies Use Dual Zone Under-Bench Fridges

1. The Family Entertainer

You’ve got kids who love soft drinks, a partner who prefers white wine, and mates who only drink beer. With a dual zone fridge, everyone’s happy. Set one side for soft drinks and beer (2-4°C), the other for wine (8-12°C). No more juggling bottles in the main fridge or running out of space during parties.

2. The Home Bar Owner

Your bar setup is your pride and joy. The JC165’s front venting means you can build it flush into your cabinetry, keeping the look sleek and professional. The lockable doors mean your top-shelf bottles stay secure, and the quiet fans won’t drown out your music or conversation.

3. The Small Venue Operator

Space is at a premium, but you want to offer a proper drinks selection. The JC165 series lets you stock up to 90 cans, or a mix of beers, wines, and mixers, all in one compact unit. Dual zone control means you can serve everything at the right temperature, impressing customers and streamlining service.

Installation & Maintenance Tips

Measure Twice: Always double-check your available space, including door swing and ventilation clearance.

Level It Out: Use the adjustable feet to ensure the fridge sits level, which helps with performance and longevity.

Keep It Clean: Wipe down the Low E glass regularly to keep it looking sharp. The black moulded interior is easy to clean with a damp cloth.

Check the Seal: Make sure the doors close properly and the seals are intact—this keeps your fridge running efficiently and your drinks cold.

FAQ: Best Under-Bench Beer & Wine Fridges in Australia

How many drinks can the Schmick JC165 hold?

The Schmick JC165 and JC165B can hold up to 90 standard 375ml cans, or a mix of bottles and cans. The dual zone layout makes it easy to separate beer, wine, and soft drinks.

Is the JC165 series suitable for outdoor use?

No, both the JC165 and JC165B are rated for indoor use only, with a maximum ambient temperature of 32°C. For outdoor or alfresco areas, look for a fridge specifically rated for higher temperatures.

Can I build the JC165 under my kitchen bench?

Yes, both models are designed for under-bench installation. They vent at the front, so you can build them flush into cabinetry—just ensure the front grill isn’t blocked.

Are the doors lockable?

Yes, both the JC165 and JC165B come with lockable doors, making them ideal for homes with kids, shared spaces, or commercial venues.

How much does it cost to run the JC165?

Both models use 1.23 kW/24hrs. At typical Australian electricity rates ($0.30–$0.35/kWh), that’s about $0.37–$0.43 per day. For the latest specs, check the product page.

Ready to Upgrade Your Entertaining?

If you’re searching for the best beer wine fridge under bench for Australian homes or venues, the Schmick JC165 series is hard to beat. With dual zone control, quiet operation, lockable doors, and a design made for seamless under-bench installation, it’s a smart investment for anyone who loves to entertain or wants to keep their drinks at the perfect temperature year-round.

Check out the full details, see more photos, and get the latest pricing on the Schmick JC165 Dual Zone Bar Fridge page. Distinct by Design—make your next gathering one to remember.

Keep Reading

The Complete Guide to Dual Zone Beer & Wine Fridges

Best Beer Fridges Australia 2026: Ultimate Buyer's Guide

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