How to Decant Wine Like a Sommelier | Wineware UK Guide

Enhance your wine experience with expert decanting techniques and the right tools, unlock hidden aromas, soften tannins, and bring out the full character of every bottle, just as a professional sommelier would. Whether you're opening a youthful red or a well-aged vintage, the proper approach to decanting can transform an ordinary pour into an extraordinary tasting experience.

Why Decant Wine?

Decanting isn't merely ceremonial; it's a vital process that:

Aerates the wine, allowing it to breathe and release its full bouquet.
Separates sediment in older vintages for a clearer pour.
Enhances flavour, softening tannins and unveiling complex notes.

Whether you're enjoying a robust red or a delicate vintage, proper decanting can significantly elevate your tasting experience.

When Should You Decant?

Wine Type	Decant?	Duration
Young red wines	Yes	30–60 minutes
Aged red wines (10+ yrs)	Yes	15–30 minutes
Full-bodied whites	Optional	15 minutes
Sparkling wines	No	Not recommended
Wines with sediment	Yes	Until sediment settles

Step-by-Step: Decanting Like a Professional

Select Your Decanter
Opt for a wide-based decanter for aeration or a narrower one for older wines with sediment.
Stand the Bottle Upright
For older wines, let the bottle stand upright for several hours to allow sediment to settle.
Open & Inspect
Carefully open the bottle and examine the cork. For fragile corks, a two-pronged Butler’s Thief opener is ideal.
Pour Slowly & Steadily
Gently pour the wine into the decanter, watching for sediment. Using a light source can help you see through the neck.
Let It Breathe
Allow the wine to rest for the appropriate time based on its type. Swirling gently can enhance oxygen exposure if needed.

Essential Tools for Decanting

Decanter – Choose a style that complements your wine and table aesthetic.
Wine Opener – Any style of corkscrew will work, or a Butler’s Thief opener for older bottles.
Aerator (Optional) – Useful for quick decanting or single-glass pours.
Wine Funnel with Filter – Helps trap sediment for smoother pours.

Explore our Wine Decanter Collection >

Sommelier Tips

Avoid over-decanting delicate wines as they can lose their nuance.
When uncertain, taste the wine before and after decanting.
Rinse your decanter with warm water only and use decanter cleaning balls.

Common Myths Debunked

"All wine needs decanting."
Some light-bodied reds and most whites don't benefit much from decanting and can even degrade.

"Decanting is only for expensive wine."
Even a £15 red can taste like a £30 bottle with proper decanting.

Elevate Your Pour

Decanting is both an art and a science. It is a perfect way to slow down and savour your wine. With the right tools and practice, anyone can decant like a sommelier.