Wine decanting time
Decide whether to aerate a wine or separate sediment, using its style and approximate age.
YOUR INPUTS
Change a number to see the result. Nothing here is saved to your account.
BEFORE YOU REACH FOR THE DECANTER
Try 10–30 minutes, and taste again.
A gentle initial aeration is a starting point for a young red. If the wine already feels open and balanced, there is no need to wait.
Why are you decanting?
Decanting can separate sediment or expose a wine to air. A young tannic red and a fragile older bottle do not need the same treatment. These are broad starting points; vintage, storage, bottle condition and taste can change the decision.
Find a wine for the foodFurther readingWSET · Serving and decanting wine
Formulae and guidance last reviewed October 2026. Serving and decanting ranges are starting points, not guarantees for an individual bottle.