Decanting is an art that makes enjoying a good bottle of wine even better. As you are about to drink your favourite wine, knowing when to decant can make all the difference in the flavours and aromas. Decanting is especially good for young wines and older wines with sediment. It lets the wine breathe, softens the tannins and releases its full bouquet.
As you pop that special bottle, you might wonder if it needs to be aerated, this is where knowing your wine comes in. Full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah benefit the most from decanting as they can develop more flavours after air exposure. Lighter wines like Pinot Noir or whites like Sauvignon Blanc may not need it.
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As you get into decanting you will find timing is everything, allowing the wine to breathe for the right amount of time can change your drinking experience. Read on and get into the nitty gritty of decanting and unlock the magic in your glass.
What Is Decanting Wine?
Decanting wine is the process of pouring wine from the original bottle into another container, usually a decanter, before serving. This is usually done for the following reasons:
Aeration
When wine is exposed to air it can open up its aroma and flavour profile. This is especially true for young red wines which have tannins that soften and develop more complexity when aerated.
Sediment Removal
Older wines, especially red wines, can develop sediment over time which can affect the taste and texture. Decanting separates the wine from the sediment so you get a smoother drinking experience.
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Presentation
Decanters can also be a nice way to present wine at the table and add to the overall dining experience.
7 Tips to Know When To Decant Wine
Know The Wine’s Age
The age of the wine is key to decanting, young reds benefit from decanting to soften the tannins and flavours. Older wines need to be decanted carefully to not lose their subtleties especially wines that are 5-10 years aged.
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Look At The Colour
The colour of the wine can give you a clue, darker reds are younger wines, and lighter colours are older vintages. For lighter older wines minimal aeration is needed, for darker younger wines more time in the decanter.
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Check For Sediment
Older wines, especially red wines can develop sediment at the bottom of the bottle. If you see sediment it is time to decant. Pour gently into the decanter stopping before the sediment gets in to ensure a clear pour.
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Sniff The Wine
Before decanting take a moment to smell the wine in the bottle. If it smells closed or muted it may benefit from aeration, but if it smells vibrant and expressive it is already ready to drink.
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Taste Test
If unsure pour a small taste from the bottle, if the flavours are tight or the wine tastes harsh it is a good indication it needs decanting. But if the wine is smooth and balanced it is best enjoyed straight from the bottle.
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Consider The Occasion
The occasion can influence your decision to decant, for special events or meals decanting can add to the experience and anticipation. If you are sharing a bottle with friends or family taking the time to decant can add to the enjoyment and conversation around the wine.
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Use A Decanter With A Wide Base
If you have decided to decant choose a decanter with a wide base as it allows for maximum aeration. The increased surface area speeds up the aeration process and the wine will open up quickly. Keep an eye on the wine as it breathes and tastes periodically to know when to pour.
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Decanting wine is an art that will elevate your wine-drinking experience. Pay attention to the wine’s age, colour and aroma and you’ll know when to pour it into a decanter. This will not only release the flavours but also add a touch of elegance to your gatherings.