I cannot think of anything more romantic than a 10 year old aged Cabernet Sauvignon decanted and paired with the perfect dish, but  there is more to a decanter than you might think! 

For some wine lovers a decanter can not only be mysterious but  intimidating. Which wine should I decant ? How long should it be decanted for? Should I decant a young wine or should I decant only aged wines?

When in doubt always remember the following two tips:

  • If the wine is old , decant it to help separate the sediment from the wine.
  • If the wine is young, decant it to help aerate the wine, this will slightly soften up the wine and ensure the aromas are jumping out of your glass.

As wine ages tannins and colour pigments bond causing a larger molecule, the increase of weight causes the molecule to settle at the bottom of the wine and sediment is formed. Although sediment is not harmful it is not a pleasant sight in your wine glass.

If you are keen to try one of your younger wines in your vinotique or if you aren’t a collector but can only find young wines, decant! It is sure to completely change the wine.  Oxygen reacts with the alcohol in the wine changing its composition, the result being a softer more enjoyable wine.

Decant your wine by pouring your selected bottle (white or red) into your decanter and allow it to stand for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.  You do not want to over expose your wine to oxygen.

The Paserene Marathon can stay in your cellar for years, perfect for aging, and is an excellent wine for decating.  Our Marathon is one of the most authentic representations of Tulbagh Cabernet Sauvignon. Click here to read more about The Paserene Marathon. Dust off those decanters and make decanting part of your wine experience.