How to eliminate the taste of volatility from a wine

Volatility in wine refers to the presence of excessive and harsh aromatics, often described as a nail polish remover-like or a chemical scent. This unpleasant taste can greatly diminish the overall enjoyment of a wine, making it essential to know how to it. Here are some tips to help remove the taste of and enhance your wine-drinking experience.

1. Decant the wine:
One of the easiest and quickest ways to reduce the taste of volatility in a wine is to decant it. Pouring the wine into a decanter allows it to come into contact with oxygen, which can help dissipate the volatile compounds causing the unpleasant aromas. Letting the wine sit in the decanter for about 30 minutes to an hour before drinking it can significantly improve its taste.

2. Aerate the wine:
If you don’t have a decanter, you can still aerate the wine by swirling it in your glass. This increases the wine’s contact with air, which aids in releasing volatile compounds. Swirling or gently swirling your glass for a few minutes before taking a sip can help reduce the volatility and enhance the wine’s flavors.

3. Utilize a wine wand or aerator:
For a more expedited technique, consider using a wine wand or aerator. These devices work by introducing air to the wine as it is being poured, instantly softening and reducing the volatile aromas. Wine wands or aerators are particularly useful if you are short on time or want to enjoy a bottle of wine without having to wait for it to decant.

4. Identify potential wine faults:
Sometimes, what may seem like volatility could actually be the result of a wine fault. Faults like volatile acidity (VA) can contribute to the acidic and pungent aromas often associated with volatile wines. Understanding common wine faults and their characteristics can help you distinguish between them and true volatility. If you suspect a fault, it’s best to consult a wine professional for guidance.

5. Opt for well-aged wines:
Younger wines tend to exhibit more volatility compared to their well-aged counterparts. If you frequently encounter volatile wines, opting for older vintages may be a solution. Over time, wines naturally evolve and integrate their flavors, reducing the presence of volatility. Keep in mind that not all wines benefit from aging, so it’s important to research the aging potential of different wine types before purchasing them.

6. Seek expert advice:
If volatility remains a persistent issue, reaching out to a wine professional or sommelier can provide valuable insights. They possess in-depth knowledge about different wines and can recommend specific bottles or strategies to minimize volatility. Don’t hesitate to seek expert advice to enhance your wine-drinking experience.

In conclusion, the taste of volatility in wine can be off-putting, but there are several strategies to effectively eliminate it. Decanting, aerating, utilizing wine wands or aerators, identifying potential wine faults, opting for well-aged wines, and seeking expert advice are all effective ways to reduce volatility and enhance the overall enjoyment of your wine. With these tips, you can confidently savor your favorite wines with minimal interference from unwanted aromas. Cheers!