Decanting wine is a common practice that can benefit many types of wine. When wine is decanted, it's transferred from the bottle to a decanter or a similar vessel, allowing it to come into contact with oxygen.
Take a moment to give wine a little taste before you pour it into a decanter. After all, wine is all about personal preferences and enjoyment. So, make sure your drink it just the way you like it.
Decanting can have several positive effects on the wine:
Aeration - Decanting exposes the wine to air, which helps it to "breathe." This process can enhance the aromas and flavors of the wine by allowing certain volatile compounds to evaporate and release more aromatic compounds, making the wine more expressive.
Softening tannins - Tannins are naturally occurring compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems. They can contribute to the structure and astringency of the wine. Young wines, especially those with pronounced tannins, can benefit from decanting as the exposure to oxygen can help soften and mellow the tannins, resulting in a smoother mouthfeel.
Opening up flavors - Decanting can help the flavours of the wine become more pronounced and accessible. It can bring out the fruitiness, complexity, and nuances of the wine, allowing you to fully appreciate its characteristics.
Is your decanter constantly left with a red hue, even after numerous cleaning efforts? Try this, fill your decanter with cool water, add a denture tablet allowing it to dissolve. Leave it soaking overnight, and behold come morning, your decanter just needs a rinse through and without the need for abrasive substances or harsh chemicals, the red hue is gone and you have a crystal clear decanter again!
