My father’s fully stocked liquor cabinet always had well kept decanters. Like my mother’s fancy perfume bottles, the delicate sparkle of unmarked bottles and the mystery liquids stored in them always held my curiosity. With that bit of glamorous nostalgia and the need to celebrate the arrival of a new era, I finally made use of the two, remarkable decanters I received as wedding gifts. My husband chuckled as we unpacked them, but his boyish wonderment turned into intrigue as I explained to him why and how to decant properly.
Decanting is the simple act of pouring the wine (or your drink of choice) out of the bottle and into another container. As simple as it may be, there are several reasons to do this.
One is to separate the sediments or residue from the wine. Sediments are harmless but taste very bitter and are common in older red wines. Second is to expose the wine to oxygen. Aerating young wines before drinking speeds up the process of aging, softening the wine and enhancing its flavors. Third is to add a touch of ambience to the night. By presenting wine in a decanter, it looks great on the dinner table or bar and adds glamour to any event --an instant conversation piece. One rule for decanting is that no liquid should be stored for long periods of time. If wine is not finished it should be returned to the bottle and sealed. Spirits can be stored longer, as long as it is not in lead crystal, because lead will leach into the contents.
The debate of decanting is that some wines just aren’t made for airing out. Delicate red wines, such as pinot noir, aren’t usually decanted because their subtle aromas can quickly dissipate. The same goes for zesty whites, such as rieslings and sauvignon blanc: they can lose their crisp, refreshing edge. Full-bodied whites may benefit from decanting, depending on the style you like. But, a decanter's appeal is not always in its function, but often in its form – in true HOT Report! fashion – Decanting wine and other spirits for aesthetic purposes is acceptable and the main reason why we (as most) do it. Scotch, vodka, gin and the other lovely amber spirits only benefit from the aesthetic of decanters.
Now, with the dubious task of deciding when, how and what to decant comes the thrill of selecting a decanter! There are so many -- from sleek to sculptural, crystal to glass, modern to traditional? Oh my? This is actually more tedious and time consuming than decanting, itself. No worries, I am here to help you out with our top choices of decanters that will unquestionably make you decant whenever you can!
Nambé Contour Crystal Decanter
Debuting in spring 2008 this wine decanter made an elegant contemporary statement in sparkling full-lead Nambé Crystal. Handcrafted lead crystal decanter has a classic beaker silhouette and a sleek wood stopper. The decanter is mouth-blown and hand-cut in the European tradition. Designed by Peter Stathis for Nambé. $150.00
Lead-Free Crystal Decanters
Mouth-blown in intriguing, well-proportioned shapes, three decanters make distinguished additions to any bar or collection. The thick, Polish glass gives them magnificent clarity and weight. Available at Gump’s, set of three. $245.00
Riedel “O” Decanter
Only the genius of the generations-old family glassware-makers Riedel could design this distinctive decanter to complement the company’s casual “O” wine tumblers. Function and form are combined to feature an integral thumb hold in the base that assists one-handed pouring, a design attribute that increases aeration. The decanter’s wide, elliptical mouth facilitates filling and promotes a smooth, drip-free pour. Perfect for entertaining or everyday use. Available at Williams – Sonoma. $219.00.
Jan Barboglio Archangel Botella Decanter
One of our favorites! For the wow-factor, a stunning angel perches on top of a glass decanter. Handcrafted in Mexico and finished to give the appearance of iron that has been well cared for over long periods of time. A limited edition found at Neiman Marcus. $230.00
Esque Decanter & Cups
This stunning clear glass decanter was made with a conscience for the Eco-connoisseur. Hand blown in a wind powered studio designed to reduce waste and gas consumption, with sinuous curves and a bold glass stopper, this piece will immediately become the highlight of your bar, demanding only the finest spirits in the house. Greenwithglamour.com. $700.00 includes two matching tumblers.