Installing a wine cooler under a counter?

I'm remodeling the kitchen and I'd like to put a wine cooler in the island. The wine cooler that I would like to purchase is actually a free standing wine cooler that vents from the back which makes it difficult if not impossible to install under the counter due to air circulation concerns. However, because of the way this island is designed there will be an open space behind the wine cooler that is 1 foot deep, 4.5 feet wide and 3.5 feet high. I was wondering if this open space will provide the air flow that is needed for a rear venting wine cooler. If necessary, I could put vents in the open area to increase air circulation and it would also be possible to install temperature controlled fans. I could buy a front venting wine cooler but I figured since I'm going to have this open space I may as well take advantage of it and save myself some money in the process. I'd appreciate any input.