A whiskey decanter is a specialized type of glassware that is designed to store and serve whiskey. It can be used for various types of alcohol, but it’s most commonly associated with serving scotch or bourbon. These are usually made from hand-blown glass pieces that have been shaped into the traditional “decanter” shape.
It is important to know what you are looking for when selecting a whiskey decanter so you can get one that will suit your needs best, but as a general rule, whiskey decanters are used for several reasons.
First and foremost, no one likes a stale glass of whiskey. A whiskey decanter is used to prevent your drink from oxidizing so that it tastes better, has more flavor, and smells better. If you love the taste of whiskey and want to enjoy it in a classy way, then a decanter is an excellent purchase. Not only does this piece add elegance to any bar or dining room table, but it also allows for much smoother drinking than when done traditionally.
This blog post will cover what type of person should be using a decanter, what qualities you should look for in a good quality liquor decanter, and some product recommendations for all budgets.
What Is a Whiskey Decanter?
A whiskey decanter is a special type of glass that is designed to hold whiskey. It has a wide base and a narrow neck, allowing it to aerate the liquor as you pour it into a separate drinking vessel. This will make for better-tasting drinks since this process helps release the flavors from inside the whiskey itself, and keeps it from reacting with the oxygen in the air.
History of Decanters
Decanters were introduced centuries ago when glass-blowing techniques were still relatively new. The main reason for their invention was to allow drinkers to enjoy whiskey without having it lose any of its flavors after being poured into another cup or bottle.
Decanters would formerly have been made of glass or crystal. However, after the fall of the Western Roman Empire, glass became increasingly difficult to obtain. Decanters were made from a variety of materials as a result of this. They were more frequently composed of bronze silver or gold, or even earthenware like porcelain or terracotta.
Glass decanters were not reintroduced until the Renaissance and the rise of the Venetian empire. It was these decanters that were first made in the form we recognize today: with a slender neck and a wide body. The only issue with this design was that since the body is so big, the exposed wine surface area increased, causing it to react with the air.
A method to address the problem was found after the glass decanter became a common household item in Britain (during the 18th century). The stopper was originally used to seal the decanter and keep the beverages from oxidizing. It became common in 18th century British designs that featured a cork stopper on top of the decanter to limit exposure of the wine to air.
This invention became the standard for all decanters to follow until modern times when other materials, such as crystals or metals began being used.
How Do Whiskey Decanters Work?
Whiskey decanters work by allowing the liquid to flow from one container into another. This has two benefits: Firstly, it helps prevent oxygen from getting into the drinks to make for a smoother whiskey itself.
Secondly, pouring your liquor through an aerated vessel will give you more control over how much is poured out while also allowing some air back into the container. This will help prevent any unpleasant flavors or aromas from being sucked back into your whiskey.
Whiskey decanters are a great way to make sure that every drink is well-rounded and smooth, which encourages people to savor their drinks rather than gulp them down quickly to get drunk faster! What are the different types of whiskey decanters?
As we’ve already briefly covered, decanters come in a variety of different forms. Some are built with a long neck and a short body, while others have no neck at all!
To choose the best whiskey decanter that suits your needs, you should consider what factors will be most important for you when it comes time to use this item. Different designs will excel in certain areas more than others, which means that it is important to consider your needs before making a purchase.
The first thing you should think about when considering the best whiskey decanter for use at home is how long you intend on using this product in question.
You will quickly notice that there are two main types of decanters:
- Glass decanters
- Decanters made of stone or crystal
This is because the two materials have different characteristics that make them better at handling certain tasks than others.
Glass decanters are easier to clean and maintain, but they’re much more likely to break than stone ones. On the other hand, crystal decanters can also be very fragile. However, they are much more durable than glass decanters and will not break as easily.
However, there are many more types of decanters besides what material they are made from. Here are some of the most popular choices:
Chiseled Decanter
A chiseled decanter features a sturdy base and the body of the decanter is carved out like a large pillar. This allows for unique designs as it can be shaped into any number of different types of pillars, such as round or square ones.
These are great because they make an attractive addition to your home bar and you’ll still get all the benefits from pouring through this type of decanter.
Glass Decanter with a Stopper
This design is similar to the type of decanter we already spoke about. The main difference here lies in the neck and how it attaches to the body of the decanter. This type features a far sturdier base but does not have any exposed wine surface area due to its large cylinder shape (which also makes it look extremely elegant).
This is an excellent choice if you are looking for a decanter that will last. However, it doesn’t quite have the same level of overall control as other designs so be sure to consider this before making your final decision.
Decanters with Spouts
A common sight in most bars around the world, decanters with spouts is a very simple yet effective design.
They have the added benefit of being easier to use than other types as you will not need to pour your liquor through any strainer or chiller for it to reach the glass. The only downside is that these designs may be prone to spilling so take extra care when using them.
Crystal Decanter
Crystal decanters are without a doubt one of the best types on offer today as they tend to be quite durable and also look extremely elegant.
However, this design does not allow for much air into your drink so you should consider keeping that in mind when making your purchase.
Modern Decanter
With their stylish design, modern decanters are slowly becoming the go-to choice for many individuals.
They are perfect if you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and class to your home bar while also storing large quantities of liquor at any given time.
Vintage Decanter
The complete opposite of modern decanters, vintage decanters are great if you’re looking for a more traditional design to add to your home bar.
They look very elegant and will also do an excellent job of protecting the flavor profile in your drinks too.
Novelty Decanter
For a more unique and unusual design, you can’t go wrong with a novelty decanter!
This is because they come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, from animals to skulls. However, be aware that while these types of decanters look great on your home bar, they aren’t the most reliable when it comes to protecting the flavor profile in your drinks due to how thin the glass is.
Globe-shaped Decanter
Perfect for travel lovers, this globe-shaped decanter is the perfect way to store your favorite liquor while out and about. There are two types – an entire globe which you pour the liquid into, or a globe with a liftable lid where you can store bottles of liquid.
Many of the latter options come with a stainless steel chiller which you can use to keep the temperature of your drink exactly where you want it at all times.
Each of these types of whiskey decanters has a different aesthetic that you may prefer over another. This means that the type of design is going to be the most important factor in your decision when it comes to this product choice!
What Should You Look For In a Whiskey Decanter?
So, once you’ve decided what type of decanter you’d like, there are plenty of other things that you’ll need to look for in a whiskey decanter. For example, you will need to consider how much liquid it holds and whether or not the design allows for ease of use.
Here are some of the most important things to look for in a whiskey decanter:
Size
There is a whole range of sizes available when it comes to whiskey decanters. And size doesn’t necessarily match the capacity – you can get some rather large whiskey decanters that don’t hold as much liquid as you would think. So size matters, particularly if you’ll be storing your decanter in a smaller space.
If you’re planning on hosting many guests at once then we recommend going with something bigger but if this is for your home bar then size is not going to be much of an issue.
Durability
Another of the main aims when it comes to buying a whiskey decanter is that you want one which will last for many years to come. This means making sure that the design itself doesn’t have any flaws, that it’s made from a durable material, and also features some kind of seal or cork closure.
Design
Whiskey decanters come in all sorts of designs from the more traditional styles to novelty ones which are very unique indeed. This means it’s very important to consider what type of design you are looking for so that the whiskey decanter itself fits in with your home bar design.
Airtight seal
It’s also important to keep in mind that a whiskey decanter with an airtight seal will do more of a good job at protecting the flavor profile in your drinks. While whiskey doesn’t oxidize as much as wine, it certainly does benefit from some sort of airtight seal as long as you’re planning on storing your whiskey for a lengthy period.
Filling process
Whiskey decanters have a wide range of designs when it comes to how they pour their contents, some being better than others. For example, you’ll need to make sure your decanter is both easy to pour from and easy to fill. Plus, if you’re looking to make an impressive presentation when pouring your whiskey at the bar then you might be better off with one that pours out in front of guests or even spouts!
Capacity
The last factor to look at is the capacity of a whiskey decanter, this will depend on what you plan on using it for! The most common size being around one liter while bigger ones can easily hold two liters or more.
This means that the capacity of your decanter will largely depend on how much you plan to use it. If this is just for home then one liter should be more than enough but if you’re planning on bringing this with you while traveling around, we recommend going bigger.
Design
Design is also very important. A decanter is meant to be seen, so it should complement your décor and personality. You might want the theme of your bar to be complemented by the decanter, so make sure it matches. It should also allow for ease of use and not become a hassle when you’re trying to fill up your glass or pour some whiskey into it.
Ease of cleaning
Once you’ve emptied your whiskey decanter, you should clean it. The best whiskey decanters should be easy to clean if you want them in perfect condition when you fill them up again. Some may have a lot of nooks and crannies where dust and dirt can get stuck – this is particularly the case with some of the more elaborate novelty designs. So, make sure the design allows for ease of cleaning before buying one.
Material
Of course, you should also consider the material of your whiskey decanter. The most common glass design is going to be a traditional one made from high-quality crystal which is resistant to scratches and cracks – this means it can last for years.
Price
Lastly, the price of a whiskey decanter should be an important factor to consider in your purchase. You may find some great ones at a reduced cost but the best way to ensure this is by going through reviews, finding out what other customers have said about it, and checking its average star rating before making any purchases.
Now that we’ve covered all of the most important factors for you to consider when buying a whiskey decanter, let’s take a look at some product recommendations.
Our Top Whiskey Decanter Recommendations
Dragon Glassware Diamond Whiskey Decanter
For a superbly unique whiskey decanter, this is one of our favorites! The diamond-shaped design will make an impressive statement on any bar counter, while the top-quality glass ensures it’s durable and easy to clean.
Featuring a wide opening for filling with ease, this whiskey decanter also has a very secure seal that keeps out air ensuring your whiskey is stored in optimal conditions. Its creator, Dragon Glassware, are known for their angular approach, and this decanter set is no different. With its stylish design and sleek stand, this will undoubtedly be the star of your bar top for years to come.
Pros:
- Diamond-shaped decanter for a unique presentation
- Top-quality glass construction ensures durability and ease of use and cleaning
- Secure seal to keep out air, ensuring whiskey is stored in optimal conditions
Cons:
- Some have reported the glass arriving broken
James Scott Five-Piece Decanter Set
This 5 piece decanter set is the full package. It includes a large decanter, four chiseled whiskey glasses, and it also comes with a mirrored stand. Storing up to 750ml, it’s perfect for enjoying your favorite whiskies with friends or family!
Meanwhile, the tray protects your desk from harm while also adding to the elegance of your arrangement. Plus, the glasses are all high-quality lead-free crystals with a wide mouth for ease of use.
Pros:
- The large decanter holds up to 750ml
- Perfect for enjoying your whiskey with friends or family
- High-quality glasses are lead-free
- The mirrored stand adds elegance to any bar top.
Cons:
- Some may find it a little pricey!
Waterford Crystal Lismore Square Decanter
Waterford is world-renowned for its crystal. This square decanter reflects this heritage. It’s a real statement piece, and it’s also one of the best whiskey decanters you can buy! Reminiscent of an ornate wine bottle with all its curves and angles, this is a traditional design for top-quality crystal glass that will add elegance to any home bar or office.
It will be a focal point in any area with its traditional style and unrivaled weight and strength. Just don’t use this for anything other than hard liquors, as acidic beverages like wine might leach lead out of the container, making it harmful to your health.
Pros:
- A high-quality crystal decanter set that is durable and easy to clean
- Statement piece perfect for adding an elegant touch to any home bar or office space
Cons:
- Cannot be used for anything other than hard liquor
Shigoo Galaxy Whiskey Decanter Set
For a stunning novelty decanter that is out of this world (pardon the pun), this galaxy-shaped decanter is a great choice. This is a stunningly detailed decanter that will impress your guests. Especially since it’s made out of lead-free crystal and a strong oak base will probably last to the next millennium!
As well as being built to withstand the test of time, you’re getting value for money with its unique design. If you love enjoying whiskey neat or on ice, or if you’re a budding astrologist or astronomer, then look no further than this stylish set.
Pros:
- A stunning novelty decanter that is well built and durable
- Features a design of the galaxy to make it stand out from other decanters!
- Perfect for enjoying whiskey neat or on ice.
Cons:
- Some have said the glasses feel a little thin
Ravenscroft Crystal Beveled Blade Decanter
This whiskey decanter is very safe to use. It’s made from lead-free crystal with a wide mouth for easy use and filling. it also contains zinc and barium, which are quite expensive components, and yet the decanter remains surprisingly affordable.
As well as looking great with its beveled body design, this decanter also has an airtight seal to keep your whiskey fresh-tasting over time. If you’re looking for a cheap but high-quality decanter, you should certainly give this one a try.
It also has an exquisite design, as well as affordability and high-quality materials – it is a genuine work of art that will undoubtedly impress even the most discriminating whiskey connoisseur.
Pros:
- Made from lead-free crystal and high-quality zinc and barium
- Affordable for most budgets
- It has an exquisite design
Cons:
- Some think the stopper doesn’t quite fit tight
What Criteria Did We Use To Come up With These Selections?
We used a range of criteria to come up with these selections. These included durability, safety for use, design features and aesthetics, portability or size options if applicable, affordability/price point relative to the quality of the product being offered.
First, we looked at product quality and safety for use. We wanted to make sure that each decanter we selected was made from durable materials and would not shatter easily and did not contain harmful materials.
Secondly, we looked at the design features of each decanter including aesthetics as well as portability or size options if applicable. This was especially important as we wanted to select a range of decanters that each had unique design features as well as looking great.
Finally, we considered the price point compared to the quality of the product. Of course, there’s no point in selecting a decanter that costs $100 if you can get something just as good for half the price. We wanted to select decanters that were not outrageously expensive but still offered a high-quality product.
We also read through several reviews to see what previous customers thought of each decanter and look for trends in the types of comments made. This was very helpful as it gave us an idea of the quality and design features that mattered most to customers. It also helped us get a sense of any potential downsides or risks associated with each whiskey decanter.
Conclusion…
The whiskey decanter is an essential item for any home bar. There are many factors to consider when choosing which one to purchase, including the shape of the product and what it’s made of. As long as you take care of your decanter then it should last a very long time.
All of these decanters are excellent options, but overall, we prefer the DragonWare Glassware Decanter set and the James Scott 5 piece set because of their high quality and value for money.
The James Scott set is made of the highest quality crystal glass while the DragonWare product has a beautiful and unique design that will look great in any home bar or kitchen counter. These are both great options.
We hope this article has helped you to learn more about whiskey decanters and what to look out for when purchasing one. You must consider all of the information in this article before making a decision, including what shape it is and how much it costs so your purchase will be worth every dollar spent on it. Then, once you’ve set up your whiskey decanter, fill it with a delicious scotch and enjoy your drinks in style.