II.3.2.5 Decanting

Definition :

Operation consisting of transferring from one wine tank to another:

A still wine at normal pressure,

 

Objectives :

a)        To separate wines from their lees, deposited on the bottom of the container.

b)       To prepare for mixing or blending operations.

c)        To prepare for physical clarification by filtration, centrifugation, etc.

d)       To achieve bulk transportation of the wine.

Prescriptions :

Decanting can be performed:

a)        Either under protection from air so as to avoid all oxidation, or

b)       With aeration, to eliminate hydrogen sulphide or to reduce the carbon dioxide or to create a managed oxidation.

Recommendation of OIV:

Admitted