What Wines to Decant?

Decanting is recommended for most young reds, especially bold varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Nebbiolo. Here are three of our favorite decanters.

What wines should not be decanted?

Up to 30 minutes if the wine shows signs of reduction.

Most white and rosé wines don't need to be decanted. In fact, some aromatic compounds, like the passionfruit flavor in Sauvignon Blanc, waft away! So, the only reason you might want to decant a white or a rosé wine is if it's “reduced.”

What wines should you let breathe?

Young red wines, especially those that are high in tannin, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, most Red Zinfandel, Bordeaux and many wines from the Rhône Valley, actually taste better with aeration because their tannins soften and the wine becomes less harsh.