Ever noticed someone pouring a bottle of wine into a fancy glass container, leaving you to wonder what it’s all about?
That’s called decanting, and it’s a pretty cool trick to make your wine taste even better.
Whether you’re new to the wine scene or already a bit of a connoisseur, knowing how to decant can really up your game.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what decanting is, why it matters, and how to do it right.
What is wine decanting?
Wine decanting is simply pouring wine from its bottle into another container, called a decanter.
This isn’t just for show – it actually helps improve the wine’s quality and makes it taste better!
This process allows the wine to “breathe.” By letting it sit in a decanter, you expose the wine to oxygen. This can enhance its flavour and aroma, making your wine experience more enjoyable.
Older red wines and young, tannic wines benefit the most from decanting. For older wines, it helps remove sediment that can taste bitter. Even some white wines, especially the richer ones, can improve with a bit of air.
Types of wines that benefit from decanting
Not all wines need decanting, such as sparkling and rosé, but many can benefit from it. Here are the main types of wines that improve with a little air:
Red wines
Most red wines, especially those with high tannin levels like Chianti wine, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Malbec, benefit significantly from decanting. The oxygen softens the tannins and enhances the flavours.
Young wines
Young, robust wines often have strong tannins and intense flavours that can mellow out with a bit of air. Decanting helps them open up and become more enjoyable to drink.
Aged wines
Older wines, particularly reds, develop sediment over time. Decanting helps separate the wine from these bitter solids, ensuring a smoother pour and a better tasting experience.
White wines
While not as common, some full-bodied white wines like Chardonnay can benefit from brief decanting. It helps release their complex aromas and flavours.
Vintage ports
These wines often have significant sediment and benefit from decanting to enhance their rich, complex flavours and to remove any sediment.
The decanting process
Decanting is a simple process, but doing it right maximises the benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to decant wines:
- If you have a bottle with sediment, let it stand upright for a day to allow the sediment to settle at the bottom.
- Carefully remove the cork, being gentle to avoid disturbing any sediment.
- Slowly pour the wine into the decanter, keeping an eye on the neck of the bottle.
- When you see sediment nearing the neck, stop pouring.
- Allow the wine to breathe. This can take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours, depending on the wine. As a general rule, young wines need more time than older ones.
Choosing a decanter
Decanters come in various styles and shapes. When choosing one, consider its unique design.
A wide base allows more surface area for the wine to interact with air, enhancing the breathing process. Choose a shape that’s easy to handle and clean.
Material is another consideration; glass and crystal are common.
Crystal is often preferred for its clarity and elegance. Ensure your decanter can hold a full bottle of wine (750ml) with some extra space for air.
How to clean and maintain a decanter
Proper maintenance of your decanter ensures it remains a useful tool for years to come. Use warm water and mild detergent for cleaning. Avoid strong soaps that can leave residues and affect the wine’s taste.
After cleaning, let the decanter air dry upside down. You can use a decanter drying stand to avoid water spots. Store your decanter in a dust-free area. If it has a stopper, keep it sealed to prevent dust from entering.
Alternative methods to decanting
If you don’t have a decanter, there are alternative methods to consider. Aerators are devices that fit into the bottle’s neck and aerate the wine as you pour. They are a convenient and effective alternative.
Another method is double decanting, where you pour the wine into a clean container and then back into the bottle. This can help aerate the wine without the need for a decanter.
Lastly, you can pour the wine into a glass and swirl it around. This exposes the wine to air, similar to decanting but on a smaller scale.
Transform your wine experience
Next time you open a bottle, take a moment to decant it to enhance your wine drinking experience – especially when you’re pairing it with food!
If you love wine and looking for something new to try or wanting to buy your favourite bottle, I Like Wine is here to help you find the perfect drop for any occasion.
Our online wine shop offers a fantastic selection of wines from all over the world.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Bordeaux, a crisp Chardonnay, or an adventurous new blend, we’ve got something for every palate and will deliver it directly to your doorstep!
