From young wine to old wine, red wine to white wine and even rosés, most types of wine can be decanted. In fact, nearly all wines benefit from decanting for even a few seconds, if only for the aeration. However, young, strong red wines particularly need to be decanted because their tannins are more intense.

Should all red wines be decanted?

Almost all wines can benefit from decanting. The aeration process makes them taste smoother and fruitier. Oxygen exposure is especially good for younger wines with very strong tannins. Avoid decanting most sparkling wines, though.

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.”