The answer depends on how long ago you bought the bottle, vintage, what type of varietal, and personal preference.

If you have had a bottle of white wine sitting in your cellar for more than five years, then you should consider aerating it before drinking. This will help open some of its subtler flavors and aromas that may have been trapped in the bottle for some time.

However, if your white wine is fresh from the store, then there is no real need for aeration since all those subtle flavors are already present in the glass.

The same thing applies when considering different types of grapes used to make white wines.

If you have an older Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc from a reputable winery, then these tend to benefit from some amount of aeration prior to serving them up at your next dinner party or gathering.

However, if you are drinking something like a Muscadet or Pinot Grigio that is just one year old or less, then you won’t really reap any benefits from aerating them first – they will taste just fine without it!