How Can Wine Be Decanted?

Decanters often intimidate the average wine drinker. In fact, most people don't even have a decanter in their home. For those who enjoy red wine everyday, it is important to understand the role a quality decanter can have on your wine experience. Not all red wines need to be decanted. In fact, most table wines don't need the added step of using a decanter. But, when you want to enjoy a quality aged big bold red wine, a decanter will help it open up. This will shape your overall experience. What does it mean to 'let it breath?' The science behind using a red wine decanter lies in the need for it to breath. Breathing just relates to the necessity of wine to come in contact with oxygen. The oxygen allows the alcohol in the wine to dissipate …show more content…
This initial blast to your nose of alcohol is also experience on the palate and can overtake the true aromas and flavors of the wine. By allowing the wine to breath, and the alcohol to disperse properly, the fruit flavors and smells of the wine will become more apparent. Then, you are able to enjoy the true nature of the bottle as the winemaker intended. What types of wine should be decanted? Like I mentioned earlier, not all wine needs to be decanted. Typically, red wines are the bottles that require a decanter for full enjoyment. Those high in alcohol or from a recent vintage will benefit from the use of a wine decanter. Decanters soften the youthfulness of a vintage recently bottled (within the last 2 years). Younger wines usually don't have the time in the bottle for the flavors haven't developed. Decanting a recently bottled wine will help the flavors develop through the oxidation process. The most common varietals requiring a decanter are big Bordeaux or a Shiraz. For the most part, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon wines are fine without the decanter. Of course, decanting a Pinot Noir will develop the flavor profile fuller. So, feel free to decant any bottle of red wine you