Decanting: A touch of elegance for your wine

What is decanting a wine?

It is a process that consists of transferring wine from a bottle to a decanter, an elegant glass or crystal container.

What is the purpose of decanting a wine?

Over time, wines can form sediment at the bottom of the bottle. Decanting prevents this sediment from forming and promotes oxygenation of the wine, enhancing its aromatic richness.

Utensils and Conditions for Good Wine Decantation

Utensils :

• Decanter: A glass or crystal container, with various shapes, specially designed to separate the sediment from the wine and allow it to oxygenate. It usually has a wide bottom and a narrow opening.
• Candle or light source: To illuminate the neck of the bottle and visualize the wine sediments.
• Glass: To collect the rest of the wine, preventing sediment from entering the decanter.

Conditions :

• Room temperature: The ideal temperature for decanting varies depending on the type of wine, but generally, room temperature is suitable.
• Lighting: A soft light, such as from a candle, makes it easier to see the sediment.
• Patience: Decanting is a process that requires time and care.

Step by Step :

• Prepare the bottle: Position the bottle vertically for a few hours before decanting, so that the sediments settle at the bottom.
• Shine a light on the neck: Place a candle or light source behind the bottle to visualize the sediment.
• Pour the wine: Tilt the bottle and pour the wine slowly into the decanter. Stop pouring when the first sediments approach the neck.
• Collect the remainder: Pour the remaining wine into the glass, avoiding sediment entering the decanter.

When to Decant :

• Aged red wines: To separate the sediments and allow their aromas to develop. → 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving
• Young, full-bodied wines: To soften the tannins and open up their aromas. → 1 to 2 hours before serving
• Wines with sediment: To prevent sediment from being served in glasses.

Observations :

• Not all wines need to be decanted:
  • Young, fruity wines – oxygenation can take away their liveliness.
  • Sparkling wines – carbonation already guarantees oxygenation.

• Excessive decanting can "oxidize" the wine and damage its aromas.
• Experiment with different types of decanters and see how they affect the flavor of your wine.

Tip :

For beginners, it is recommended to start with aged red wines, as the benefits of decanting are more evident.

• Types of decanters: There are different models, each with its own characteristics and functions.
• Decanting time: The ideal time varies depending on the wine and the purpose of decanting.

Wines that should not be decanted: Some wines can be harmed by decanting.