3 Ways to Decant Wine

Decanting wine is a technique used to separate the wine from sediment and to aerate it. This can improve the taste and aroma of the wine, especially with older or tannic wines. Here are three ways to decant wine:

1. Traditional Decanting

This classic method is straightforward and effective. Follow these steps:

• Prepare your decanter: Ensure it's clean and dry.
• Open the wine bottle: Carefully open it, avoiding cork breakage.
• Pour slowly: Tilt the bottle and gently pour the wine into the decanter.
• Stop pouring when you see sediment: Once sediment approaches the neck, stop to avoid transferring it.

2. Hyper Decanting

This innovative method accelerates aeration and is ideal for young, tannic wines. Here’s how to do it:

• Blend it: Pour the wine into a blender and blend for 15-30 seconds. While unconventional, this method rapidly infuses oxygen into the wine.
• Alternate method: Pour the wine back and forth between two decanters or a decanter and a glass several times.
• Let it sit: Allow the wine to rest for 10-15 minutes to settle before serving.

3. Let the Bottle Breathe 

While not true decanting, simply opening a wine bottle and letting it sitfor 15-30 minutes can help aerate it. This works best for wines that are not too tannic or young but still benefit from some oxygen exposure.

Remember: Decanting is not necessary for all wines. Younger wines, especially those with low tannins, may not benefit from decanting. However, for older wines, tannic reds, and wines with sediment, decanting can significantly improve the drinking experience.