Hold the Michael David Lodi bottle upright and check the fill level and cork condition. Ensure the label is clean and the bottle is at typical cellar or room temperature (60–68°F / 15–20°C) for reds.

Chill slightly if desired

If the bottle is warmer than 68°F (20°C) and you prefer a slightly cooler red, place the bottle in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes. Alternatively, add 1–2 ice cubes to the glass briefly to bring down temperature a few degrees, then remove the ice.

Prepare glassware and decanter

Use large-bowled red wine glasses to concentrate aroma. If you use a decanter, rinse it with 1 cup filtered water and discard the rinse to ensure no odors; bring the decanter to room temperature.

Open the bottle

Cut and remove the capsule, wipe the bottle lip with a clean cloth. Using a corkscrew, remove the cork steadily. Inspect the cork for any off aromas or staining (signs of spoilage).

Pouring & Serving

Decant (optional)

If the wine is young, has sediment, or you want to aerate it, gently pour the Michael David Lodi into the decanter in a steady stream. Leave any visible sediment in the bottle by stopping when you see solid matter approach the neck (typically after the main pour). Let the wine sit in the decanter for 20–60 minutes depending on intensity: 20–30 minutes for medium-bodied wines, up to 60 minutes for big, tannic styles.

Direct pour (if not decanting)

If not decanting, pour a small tasting sample (~2 oz / 60 ml) into one glass to evaluate aroma, balance, and any faults. Then continue to pour 5–6 oz (150–180 ml) per serving into large red wine glasses, filling to the widest part of the bowl to allow swirling.

Serve with suggested temperature

Serve the Michael David Lodi at approximately 60–65°F (15–18°C). If chilled too much, allow the glass to warm in your hand for 5–10 minutes before drinking.

Optional palate cleansers and pairings

Offer plain crackers as palate cleansers between tastings. For food pairings, present 3 oz of aged cheddar or manchego, 2 oz of thinly sliced cured meats, and a small square (1 oz) of dark chocolate to complement the wine’s fruit, spice, and tannic profile.

Tasting Notes & Storage After Opening

Evaluate aroma and palate

Swirl the glass gently, inhale deeply to note primary fruit (ripe cherry, blackberry), secondary notes (vanilla, baking spice, oak) and tertiary notes with age (leather, tobacco). Take a small sip, let it coat the mouth, and note acidity, tannin, alcohol warmth, and finish.

Preserve leftover wine

After serving, re-cork the bottle (use original cork or wine stopper). Store upright in a cool place or refrigerate. Consume within 2–4 days for best quality. If you decanted, consider transferring leftovers to a smaller bottle to minimize air exposure.