What Is a Decanter? Plus, Why You Should Use One for Your Favorite Spirits

Despite this lengthy lineage, many drinks enthusiasts haven't the foggiest idea of what to use a decanter for. If you're wondering just what a decanter is and what to put in it or if it's safe to use at all, know that generally, these decorative glass or crystal vessels are excellent for holding pretty much any alcoholic spirit. (Wine, as we'll explain, is a somewhat trickier proposition.) Here are some pointers to keep top of mind before decanting that favorite whisky and giving it pride of place next to your favorite set of tumblers.

What Is a Decanter?

A decanter is a vessel, often made from glass or crystal, that is used to hold a liquid, generally liquor or wine. It has a wide base and a tall, narrow neck with an airtight stopper to seal it. A carafe is a somewhat similar container but does not have a stopper, so unlike a decanter, it is only used for serving rather than for storing the liquid long term.

What to Put in a Decanter

When it comes to decanting, almost any spirit is fair game. You can fill it with brown or clear spirits, anything you'd likely sip straight up, on the rocks, or mix into cocktails.

Common spirits used in a decanter are:

• Whisky
• Bourbon
• Rye
• Rum
• Tequila
• Brandy
• Cognac
• Armagnac
• Vodka
• Gin

The Benefits of Decanting

If you're wondering what to use a decanter for, note that these vessels let the spirits mingle with the oxygen, and breathe, encouraging nuanced aromas to open up and bloom.

While decanting won't improve the spirit's taste, it won't do any harm to the spirit as long as the closure is airtight. Spirits are less reactive to oxygen than wine, which means their flavor profiles won't differ much whether the spirit is stored in a decanter or the original bottle it came in.

In the case of whisky and other liquors, the benefit of decanting is largely an aesthetic one. You can create a cohesive look on your home bar by removing the bottles from their mismatched, branded packaging and pouring them into beautiful decanters.

A Word About Wine

If you decant wine, don't let it linger—instead, enjoy it straight away.

Yes, you can decant wine into wine decanters. In some instances, say, with a bottle of Rioja or cabernet sauvignon, decanting can soften the tannins and free them of sediment.

But don't expect that decanter full of red wine to last. After two or three days, it will become over-aerated and lose its oomph, soon becoming unpalatable. Once the wine opens up, it should be served immediately.

How Long to Store Spirits in a Decanter

Unlike wine, which becomes overaerated and can oxidize if stored in a decanter, spirits can last years in a decanter—as long as the stopper is airtight. The best practice, though, is to try and consume your decanted spirit sooner than that. Prolonged storage (over two years) in a decanter will probably produce some discoloration and loss of flavor intensity. If your spirit is still in the unopened package it was purchased in, it can last decades.

Avoid Lead Crystal

Many of the most beautiful spirits decanters you see on bars are made of crystal. Intricate patterns are cut into light-catching designs, making them sparkle on your bar cart and welcoming you come happy hour.

While these are undeniably beautiful, be mindful of what type of decanter you use for spirits—lead crystal decanters contain small amounts of lead that will leech into the spirits over time. Many antique decanters, for instance, are made from lead crystal.

If you're thinking about purchasing a decanter, opt for lead-free options. And if you already own a lead crystal decanter, use it to hold liquor for no longer than a few days at a time.

How to Decant Spirits Properly

Ready to decant your spirits? Here's how to do it the right way so you can enjoy your spirits for years to come.

Wash and Dry Decanter

Start by thoroughly washing your decanter inside and out. Since your spirits could be inside the decanter for years, you want to make sure the vessel is as clean as possible. Dry the decanter completely after washing. You do not want any water mixing with the spirits.

Fill the Decanter

To avoid spilling any of your spirits, place a funnel on the decanter rim. Pour the spirit into the decanter, leaving about two inches from the rim. Overfilling the decanter can cause spilling.

Replace Stopper

Once you've filled the decanter, replace the stopper, making sure it is airtight.

When to Refresh or Replace Your Spirits or Decanter

If the spirit in your decanter looks suspect, it may be time to toss it—and it may also be time to purchase a new decanter.

Watch out for mold, mildew, dust, and any foreign floaters that appear in your decanter. Should you notice any of these, toss the remaining liquid, clean your decanter, and double-check that the closure still meets tightly with the base of the decanter when closed. Once air can penetrate your spirit when the bottle is closed, it's time to replace your decanter.

If your decanter still has an airtight seal, refill it with your next spirit of choice for a renewed addition to your home bar. And keep it out of direct sunlight, which can accelerate oxidation.