New and confused

[harvdzny]

My husband and I have just started in the wine arena. I received a catalog with different wine decanters for sale. How do I know which wines should be placed into a decanter? They also sold different types of aerators and funnels. What are these used for?

Now for the really dumb question. Which wines should be refrigerated? I always thought that red wines were to be served at room temperature and white and blush should be chilled. Is that correct?

Also, we tend to favor red wines. What is a good year for Cabernet? How about Merlot?

Last but not least, how do the Pinot Noir's and Pinot Grigio's stand up to the test? Are there any good ones?

Any information would be a great help. Thanks a bunch!!!!

Darci