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    Decanters & Carafes: Do You Really Need One?

    Decanters & Carafes: Do You Really Need One?

    Decanters and carafes aren’t just beautiful centrepieces on a table — they’re tools that transform the way wine (and even spirits) taste and feel. From softening tannins to elevating the aroma, a good decanter adds both function and theatre to serving. But how do you know if you really need one, and which style is right for you?

    At a Glance

    Q: What does a decanter do?
    A: A decanter helps wine breathe by exposing it to oxygen, softening tannins and releasing aromas. For spirits, decanters are about presentation — offering aesthetic appeal while keeping the drink stable.

    Why Use a Decanter?

    • For Wine: Decanting allows young reds to open up, softening bold tannins and enhancing fruit character. Aged wines benefit too, with subtle aromas and fine textures becoming more expressive.

    • For Spirits: While spirits like whisky or cognac don’t change through oxygen exposure, pouring them into a decanter elevates the bar cart and the ritual of serving.

    • For Hosting: A sculptural glass vessel adds elegance and a sense of occasion to any pour.

    How to Decant Wine

    Q: How long should you decant wine?
    A: It depends on the wine.

    • Young Reds: 30–60 minutes helps soften structure and bring forward fruit.

    • Aged Reds: Just 15–20 minutes is often enough, so delicate aromas aren’t lost.

    • Whites: Less common, but fuller-bodied whites (like Chardonnay) can benefit from 10–15 minutes.

    Types of Decanters & Carafes

    • Functional Decanters: Wide-based vessels like the Riedel Ultra maximise surface area and oxygen exposure.

    • Artisanal Statements: Handcrafted designs such as the Brian Hirst Signature series serve as both sculpture and service.

    • Everyday Essentials: Slim, easy-pour styles from Zalto or PLUMM are perfect for casual dinners.

    • Decorative Collectables: Pieces like the Sophienwald Apollo bring both utility and visual drama.

    Spirits in Decanters

    Q: Can you put whisky or bourbon in a decanter?
    A: Yes — but it’s for presentation, not preservation. Spirits don’t oxidise like wine, so their flavour stays stable. A decanter simply makes the act of pouring more elegant.

    Caring for Your Decanter

    • Rinse with warm water after each use.

    • Use cleaning beads or brushes to remove sediment.

    • Avoid detergents, which can cling to the glass.

    • Store upright, away from dust.

    Explore Our Decanter Collection

    From timeless crystal by Riedel and Zalto to collectible Australian-made pieces by Brian Hirst, our collection is designed to suit every style of drinker. Whether you want an everyday carafe or a show-stopping centrepiece, a decanter brings ritual, elegance, and refinement to the pour.

    Shop Decanters & Carafes →

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