Decanting serves two main purposes:
1. Aeration (For Young or Tannic Wines)
- Releases aromas: When in contact with oxygen, the volatile compounds in the wine activate, enhancing its fruity, spicy, or earthy notes.
- Softens the tannins: In young and robust wines (such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec), aeration reduces astringency, making the wine rounder and more pleasant to the palate.
2. Separation of Sediments (For Aged Wines)
- Wines aged more than 8-10 years (such as a Rioja Gran Reserva or an old Bordeaux) often develop sediments (tartrates and solid particles).
- The decanter naturally filters these residues , preventing them from reaching the
How to Use a Decanter Properly?
Step 1: Choose the Right Time
- Aged wines: They only need 10-30 minutes (to avoid losing their aromatic complexity).
- Young/tannic wines: Decant them 30 minutes to 2 hours before serving.
Step 2: Prepare the Bottle
- Open the bottle carefully and remove the capsule and cork cleanly.
- If it is an aged wine, keep it upright for 24 hours before so the sediments settle at the bottom.
Step 3: Pour the Wine into the Decanter
For wines with sediments:
- Use a candle or flashlight behind the neck of the bottle to see the liquid. Pour slowly in a steady motion until you notice the sediments reaching the edge. Stop there.
- For young wines: You can pour more quickly to encourage aeration.
- Use a candle or flashlight behind the neck of the bottle to see the liquid. Pour slowly in a steady motion until you notice the sediments reaching the edge. Stop there.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Once decanted, serve it in suitable glasses and taste its evolution every 15-30 minutes. You will notice how it changes!
Which Wines SHOULD NOT Be Decanted?
- Very old and delicate wines (such as an aged Pinot Noir), which can "fade" quickly.
- Young white and rosé wines (except some aged Chardonnays).
-
Sparkling wines (they would lose their bubbles).
Conclusion: Decanting Makes the Difference
A good decanter is not just an elegant accessory, but a tool that enhances the wine experience. Whether to soften tannins, remove impurities, or simply enjoy an age-old ritual, mastering this technique will allow you to get the most out of every bottle.
