Decanting wine that has been stored in a wine cellar or wine fridge is an important step to ensure that the wine tastes its best when served. Here’s how you can properly decant your wine:
1. Choose the Right Decanter
The first step in decanting wine is to choose the right decanter. Decanters come in various shapes and sizes, but the most common are the classic wide-bottomed decanters and the aerating decanters. Choose a decanter that allows for maximum air exposure to the wine, which helps to open up the flavors and aromas.
2. Prepare the Wine
Before decanting, it’s important to prepare the wine properly:
- Remove the wine bottle from the cellar or wine fridge and let it stand upright for at least 24 hours to allow any sediment to settle at the bottom.
- Wipe the bottle clean to remove any dust or dirt that may have accumulated during storage.
3. Decanting Process
Now that you have the decanter and prepared the wine, it’s time to decant:
- Hold the bottle of wine steady and carefully remove the cork, making sure not to disturb the sediment at the bottom.
- Slowly pour the wine into the decanter, making sure to leave the sediment in the bottle.
- Stop pouring when you see the sediment reaching the neck of the bottle.
4. Let the Wine Breathe
Once the wine is in the decanter, let it breathe for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the wine to open up and release its aromas and flavors.
5. Serve the Wine
After letting the wine breathe, it’s time to serve:
- Pour the wine slowly into glasses, making sure to leave any sediment in the decanter.
- Enjoy the wine with your meal or on its own, savoring the enhanced flavors and aromas.
6. Cleaning the Decanter
After enjoying your wine, it’s important to clean the decanter properly:
- Rinse the decanter with warm water immediately after use to prevent any residue from drying out.
- Use a decanter cleaning brush or gentle soap to clean the decanter thoroughly.
- Let the decanter air dry upside down to prevent water spots from forming.