I got a wine aerating pourer (Rabbit) for Christmas and would appreciate your opinion on their efficacy. Do they make a difference? Are some wines best left un-aerated? Which wines benefit from aerating?
Jo
Dear Jo,
Nerd wine-accessory alert! Aerators generally work. And, though not widely appreciated, most wines can benefit with a bit of aeration. The devices you're talking about essentially are fancy funnels. You either hold them in your hand or wedge them into the bottle opening like a cork. As the wine flows, it undergoes turbulence, accelerating its contact with air. Oxygen can enhance a wine's aroma and also, especially in the case of reds, soften astringent tannins. The wine will taste more complex and smoother. Even young bottles can benefit, especially those sealed under screw cap. If you don't own an aerator (there are other brands besides Rabbit, including Trudeau and Vinturi - I'm a fan of the Vinturi), you can accomplish much the same effect with a decanter or any pitcher. Empty the bottle into the vessel, then pour it from the decanter into glasses. Or, if you don't have a decanter, swirl the wine in your glass.
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