Decanting wine before serving it can greatly enhance the taste and experience of drinking it. Preparing your wines properly before enjoying them is not only a mark of wine drinking experience, but adds an air of sophistication as well.
Decanting wine allows it to come into contact with air, which can help to soften tannins and bring out the flavours and aromas of the wine. This is particularly important for young, tannic red wines that can taste harsh and astringent. By decanting the wine, you can allow it to "breathe" and become more balanced and smooth. Decant the wine and allow to breathe for 1 to 2 hours, depending on the age.
Some wines, particularly older red wines, can develop sediment over time. A sip of sediment can ruin the experience overall. Decanting the wine helps to separate the clear liquid from the sediment, which can give the wine a more refined and enjoyable taste - without the unwanted texture.
Decanting wine can also help to regulate its temperature. For white wines, decanting can help to bring the wine to a more suitable serving temperature. For red wines, decanting can help to cool them down if they have been stored in a warm place. White wines are generally served at a cooler temperature than reds and do not need to breathe anywhere near as long as a red wine does - 30 minutes will do perfectly.
Decanting wine can also add a touch of sophistication to a dinner party or special occasion. It can be a visually appealing and enjoyable process for both the host and guests - just make sure that you decant with enough time for the wine to breathe before serving to your guests.
In summary, decanting wine before serving can improve its taste, clarity, and overall drinking experience. So next time you open a bottle of wine, consider decanting it to fully appreciate all that it has to offer. We have a range of wine decanters, with gorgeous clean lines and beautiful silhouettes, specifically designed for both white and red wines, young and old.
Sources:
"Decanting Wine: The Why, What, and How." VinePair. https://www.vinepair.com/articles/decanting-wine-explained/
"Why Decanting Wine is Important." Wine Folly. https://www.winefolly.com/review/why-decanting-wine-is-important/
"Decanting Wine: Everything You Need to Know." The Spruce Eats. https://www.thespruceeats.com/decanting-wine-4686569
