What is the purpose of the decanting process?

The decanting process primarily serves the purpose of aerating the wine and separating it from sediment. When wine, especially older red wines, is stored over time, sediment can form due to the natural aging process as particles settle out of the liquid. Decanting allows for the careful pouring of the wine from its bottle into another vessel, usually a decanter, which not only aerates the wine—enhancing its aromas and flavors by allowing it to interact with air—but also ensures that the sediment remains in the bottle. This method is particularly beneficial for wines that have developed complex flavors and aromas that can be unlocked through aeration, thus improving the overall drinking experience.

Aeration can significantly impact how wine is perceived; it can soften tannins and encourage the release of volatile compounds, enhancing the wine's bouquet and taste. Therefore, the function of decanting goes beyond just removing sediment; it is about improving the wine's overall profile as well.