Aromium Aeration Set
Aromium Aeration Set
Too often the decanting and aeration of wines is neglected. Wines, especially young wines, have a lot to gain from "breathing" as oxygenation assists in tannins appearing less astringent and more integrated or "rounded".
Too often the decanting and aeration of wines is neglected. Wines, especially young wines, have a lot to gain from "breathing" as oxygenation assists in tannins appearing less astringent and more integrated or "rounded". And, unfortunately, not many people exercise the patience to mature their wines in the cellar to achieve this integration.
Since most wines are generally enjoyed within the first couple of hours of purchase, a decanter or aeration set should be a must-have for wine quaffers. Especially one as eye-catching and well-priced as this one.
Made from hand-blown glass, the Aromium Aeration Set pairs a broad-based decanter with an equally wide-top aerator and is specifically aimed at young wines that are "still hibernating". The duo-set enhances oxygenation by boosting the size of the surface and therefore the amount of time wine has in contact with the air. When wine is poured through the aerator, two holes at the base force it to fountain into the decanter's wide-base - allowing the wine to "wake up" and ensure full release of its aromas.
A De Grendel Merlot 2006 was put through the aeration test. A rather onedimensional wine when simply poured from the bottle, this wine revealed secondary flavours and aromas that were indeed "slumbering" before having been poured through the set.
Testing completed, the aerator top rested in the accompanying dripper stand - a nice touch. Apart from the set also being an attractive table-top display, the doubling-up of decanter and aerator offers very pleasing results.
The Aromium Aeration set is available from the Culinary Equipment Company and retails at R409.00. Tel 011 701 2200, www.culinary.co.za
