The process involves carefully pouring wine from its original bottle into another container, typically made of glass, before serving. This action serves two primary purposes: separating sediment that may have formed during aging and aerating the wine to enhance its aromas and flavors. For example, a mature red wine often exhibits sediment, which, while harmless, can be undesirable in texture.
This practice offers several benefits, including improving the visual appeal of the wine by removing sediment and allowing the wine to express its full aromatic potential. The increased surface area exposure to air facilitates the release of volatile compounds, softening tannins and creating a more harmonious and nuanced drinking experience. Historically, this technique was employed to ensure that all wines were free from impurities and offered the best possible taste.
