Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Wine Details & Serving
Optional decanting & aromatics
Method
Wine Details & Serving
- 1
Chill and prepare bottle
If the bottle has been stored at cellar temperature, place it upright in the refrigerator for 30–45 minutes to bring it to a favorable serving temperature for Napa red blends (55–65°F / 13–18°C). If it is already at serving temperature, allow it to sit upright for 10–15 minutes at room temperature before opening.
- 2
Inspect and open
Wipe the bottle neck with a clean cloth or a splash of filtered water. Using a waiter’s corkscrew or wine opener, remove the capsule, insert the screw straight into the cork, and gently extract the cork. Pour a small 1–2 oz (30–60 ml) taste into your own glass first to confirm the wine is sound (no cork taint).
- 3
Pour and serve
Pour 4–6 oz (120–180 ml) of wine per guest, filling each red wine glass to the widest part for good aeration. Leave roughly 1/3 of the bottle if you plan to decant; otherwise, pour directly from the bottle into glasses. Recommend serving temperature 55–65°F (13–18°C).
Optional decanting & aromatics
- 4
Decanting (optional)
If you prefer more open aromatics and softer tannins, decant the wine. Pour the entire bottle slowly into a decanter or large glass pitcher, holding the bottle over a light so you can stop if sediment appears (not common in most Napa blends but possible with older bottles). Let the wine sit in the decanter for 30–60 minutes before serving.
- 5
Glassware and presentation
Rinse glasses with a small amount of filtered water and invert to air-dry, or wipe with a clean, lint-free cloth. Arrange charcuterie accoutrements on a platter: soft and hard cheeses, a few slices of cured meats, olives, and a handful of nuts. These pairings complement the fruit, oak, and tannic structure typical of Napa Valley red blends.
- 6
Tasting notes & adjustment
Taste the wine after decanting (or immediately if not decanted). Note aromas (dark berries, plum, vanilla, baking spice) and structure (acidity, tannin). If the wine feels tight, allow additional aeration in the glass by swirling; if it’s too warm, place the bottle back in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before continuing service.