Choosing the Right Decanter

• Full-bodied reds (Cabernet, Shiraz, Petite Sirah, Tempranillo): choose a wide-base decanter for maximum air contact.
• Medium-bodied reds (Merlot, Sangiovese, Barbera): a mid-sized decanter works well.
• Light-bodied reds (Pinot Noir, Beaujolais): a small to medium decanter, lightly chilled, preserves detail.
• Whites and Rosé: decanting is optional; a small chilled carafe can add freshness.

Also consider shape, capacity and build. A wider base speeds aeration. Standard 750 ml capacity suits most bottles; larger pieces suit magnums or statement service. Hand-blown crystal feels light and expressive; machine-made is consistent and durable.

Decanter vs Carafe

Decanter usually means a vessel designed for aeration and sediment management, often with wider bases and pour control. Carafe is a slimmer, serve-first shape for water, white wine, or light reds. Both have a place on the table. Choose by wine style and occasion.

KSC Picks

Zalto — featherlight, hand-blown precision that shows detail and texture. A favourite for fine reds.

Sophienwald — elegant thin crystal with generous surface area. Refined yet resilient.

RIEDEL — performance shapes for specific styles and formats.

Plumm — Australian design with practical durability. Ideal for entertaining.

Brian Hirst — art-led handblown forms with presence on the table.

How to Use a Decanter

Pour so the wine runs across the inner wall to increase air contact. A gentle swirl by the neck helps. Typical timing ranges from 15 minutes to 3 hours; most table reds settle around 40 minutes. As a guide: full-bodied reds 1–2 hours, medium-bodied 30–60 minutes, light-bodied a short splash and serve. Taste as you go.

Sediment and Clarity

Older reds may contain sediment. Pour slowly and stop when you see it reach the neck. A small tea strainer or fine mesh over the decanter can help catch particles. A candle or light under the bottle makes it easier to see.

Material, Safety and Care

Lead-free crystal offers clarity and sparkle; borosilicate or glass is a good choice for durability and easy care. If you use leaded crystal, avoid long-term storage of liquids. Rinse promptly after service. Clean with warm water and cleaning beads or a soft brush, then dry on a stand and finish with a lint-free polishing cloth. Avoid scented detergents that leave aroma behind.

Delivery and Protection

Same Day Sydney Delivery. Fast Australia wide delivery. Every order is packed carefully by our team and insurance is available at checkout for extra peace of mind.

FAQs

Decanter vs carafe: what is the difference?
A decanter is shaped for aeration and sediment control, often with a wide base. A carafe is a serve-first shape suited to water, whites and light reds.

Which wines benefit most from decanting?
Young, structured reds see the biggest lift. Mature reds may need gentle decanting to separate sediment. Some whites also benefit from a brief splash.

How long should I decant?
As a guide: full-bodied reds 1–2 hours, medium-bodied 30–60 minutes, light-bodied a short splash. Taste and adjust.

What size or shape should I choose?
Wide base for young structured reds; slimmer profile for delicate or aged wines where control matters. Standard 750 ml fits most needs; larger pieces suit magnums.

Is lead-free crystal better?
Lead-free crystal gives brightness and a fine rim feel. Glass and borosilicate favour durability. Avoid storing liquids long-term in leaded crystal.

How do I clean a decanter without streaks?
Use warm water with cleaning beads or a soft brush, dry on a stand, then finish with a polishing cloth. Avoid fragranced detergents.

Do you offer decanter delivery in Sydney?
Yes. Same Day Sydney Delivery on in-stock pieces and fast shipping across Australia. Insurance can be added at checkout.

Shop Decanters and Carafes

Explore hand-blown showpieces and everyday carafes from Zalto, Sophienwald, RIEDEL, Plumm, Brian Hirst, MarkThomas, Jancis Robinson, Sydonios, Menu and Viski. Find the best wine decanter for your table and let Kent Street Cellars deliver it to your door. Independent and Australian-owned.