Wine Decanturs
By: Sarah O'Brien - Senior Editor - floatingcork.com
I have officially gone fancy pants now as I am the recipient of a gorgeous 100% soda lime glass decanter. Made in Poland shipped to Target (it is its own country) and given to me as a gift it sits in my living room right now, sparkling at me. When friends come over I am sure to have some of the red sippy waiting for them, nestled within the smooth crevices that shape my classically designed decanter. I have not yet mastered the art of gracefully pouring out of the decanter but no matter, all are in awe of Its brilliance and pay me no mind as my wrist shakes under the weight of the art (soda lime glass is some heavy s*#t). As my friends and I gather ‘round the masterpiece, some talk of how cool it is to have a decanter, others muse about the science of oxygenation and I imagine how Chihuly would be inspired by the blown glass piece decorating my living room, my life.
You too can have your own “Chihulyesque” decanter. There are many price ranges and styles – choose one that helps you identify yourself with the world.
Here are a few of my online faves:
 Rojaus Inverted Wine Decanter
Price: $179.95 (when not sold out)
What I say: Not for amateurs or for those of you who still have it out for the prom queen. This gem is the class favorite and seems to always put out (much like you know who).
What it has to say for itself: This decanter allows you to remove the sediment from and increase the surface area of your favorite bottle of red wine by pouring it over a glass globe that rests on a mesh filter into a suspended glass receptable, resulting in wine that has been properly exposed to oxygen. When poured over the 31/2" diam. hand-blown Romanian glass globe, wine is both agitated and its surface area is increased by 381/2" sq., releasing its bouquet and softening its tannins. The stainless steel mesh filter screens out sediment and cork residue, and will not infuse the wine with odors or tastes. The receptacle has a stainless steel lever-spigot operated by pressure from the upthrust rim of a glass, allowing you to pour wine without touching the decanter. The decanter is suspended by a powder-coated wrought-iron frame that rests on a sturdy metal and Italian marble base. 25" H x 9" W x 121/2" D. (9 lbs.)
What I say: The place to go for all of your decanter needs. Riedel hosts a display of decanters for every occasion, personality type, day of the year, or mood. Look for the Amadeo, Cornetto Magnum, Vinifera, or Decanter “O”.
What Robert M. Parker, Jr. has to say: The finest glasses for both technical and hedonistic purposes are those made by Riedel. The effect of these glasses on fine wine is profound. I cannot emphasize enough what a difference they make.”
What it has to say for itself: A positive approach to life is linked to pleasure and enjoyment. Pleasure is given by our senses like sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste. Experience how our glass makers create a true “zest for life” out of the versatile material of glass.
Um…I'm with ya.
Crate & Barrel
www.crateandbarrel.com
Price: ranges between $9.95 - $34.95
What I say: Sophistication on a budget. Besides, if you are the first of your friends to get a decanter it don't matter how little you spend, you trendsetter you. Makes a great gift.
What it has to say for itself: Various degrees of discussion about: handblown glass, hand wash, made in Europe.
Modest and to the point. |
