Selecting the right decanter is an important step in enhancing the wine tasting experience. Decanters not only allow the wine to fully interact with the air, releasing aromas and improving taste, but they also remove sediments. Here are some professional tips to help you choose the most suitable decanter.
Understand the shape and design of decanters
Wide base: Choosing a decanter with a wider base can increase the surface area of the wine that interacts with the air, which is especially important for red wines with high tannin content and full body (such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah/Shiraz). These wines need more oxygen to soften the tannins and achieve a smoother mouthfeel.
Long slender neck: A design with a narrow neck helps control the flow when pouring, preventing spills, and makes it easy to observe the location of sediments. This is particularly important when dealing with aged wines to ensure that sediments do not enter the decanter.
Easy to clean: It is very important to choose a decanter that is easy to clean, as residues or dirt may accumulate inside after long-term use. Selecting a design that is simple and has no dead corners can facilitate cleaning.
Selecting based on wine characteristics
Young red wines: A wide-bottom decanter is needed to accelerate oxidation.
Aged wines: Choose a decanter with a slender neck to protect its delicate aromatic structure, complemented by a filter to assist in sediment removal.
White and orange wines: Although not commonly used, versatile decanters can also be selected for lightly aerated wines.
Material considerations
Glass vs. Crystal: Both glass and crystal are common materials for decanters.
Glass decanters: Practical and budget-friendly, they are lighter and suitable for everyday use. For beginners, selecting a high-quality glass decanter can meet their needs.
Crystal decanters: High-end decanters are mostly made of crystal, offering better quality while showcasing the color and clarity of the wine, providing greater aesthetics and refractive effects, but care should be taken due to their fragility.