Crystal Glass Decanters: What You Need To Know

Many people today still hold dinner parties when they invite family or friends around for dinner and to sit and relax and talk afterwards. It can make a very big change from sitting down and watching Corrie or Eastenders, as so many people do. While some people find those programmes entertaining, there are also other things in life, so catching up with the latest news about family and friends is a good thing.

People who do this also tend to ensure that the dinner table is set with smart cutlery (solid silver is great!), nice table décor, and crystal glassware. If you have ever wondered why crystal glasses and decanters look so shiny and sparkling it is because they are not entirely glass!

Crystal glassware contains added minerals / metal oxides (which can include magnesium and zinc) and lead – hence the term, lead crystal. In fact, lead crystal contains about 25% lead, give or take a little. This has the effect of making the glass itself stronger, and that means that glass manufacturers can produce glasses that are thinner and hence have a more delicate and elegant air about them.

Not only that, but the added elements also have an effect on the refraction of light which is why one gets the “sparkly” effect that things such as crystal glass decanters produce.

Because crystal glass is so much stronger than ordinary glass you can also do things with it that you could not otherwise do. So, for example, you can cut it to add patterns to it – obviously producing what is called cut glass. In fact, most crystal glass decanters are cut glass, and this can produce all sorts of different effects to the appearance.

Crystal glass is also used – as you might guess – for glasses, especially wine glasses. Because it is so much stronger than glass you can create wine glasses that are thin and light and have a thin rim. Because of the light refraction, it means that you get a nice view of your wine, particularly red wine, when scrutinising it.

One thing that you should know about lead crystal is that it is to some extent porous. That may seem strange, but it is. For this reason, it should be hand-washed and not put in the dishwasher. However, you can also get lead-free crystal glassware which instead of lead uses magnesium and zinc. This will be fine in the dishwasher.

Stylish Crystal Glassware Designs for Your Table

Crystal glassware has been a mark of luxury for ages. The intricately cut patterns and designs on these glasses capture and reflect light, making your dining table dazzle guests. So, when it comes to setting up a fashionable and elegant dining table, your choice of crystal glassware makes all the difference.

The right crystal glassware complements your beverages and serves as a centrepiece for starting the conversation. To make a lasting impression, let’s explore some of the most fashionable crystal glassware designs that blend elegance with trendiness.

Modern Minimalism – Clean lines and simple, elegant designs are all the rage in modern crystal glassware. Stemless wine glasses and sleek tumblers with minimalist shapes bring a feel of modern sophistication to your table. Their understated style complements most table settings beautifully.

Coloured Crystal – Inject a pop of colour to your table with coloured crystal glassware. Deep emerald greens, sapphire blues, and ruby reds infuse variety and vibrancy into your table setting. These glasses are perfect for special occasions.

Crystal Glass Decanters – Don’t overlook the role of decanters in your setting, and pair your fashionable glassware with equally stylish decanters. Crystal glass decanters, often having stoppers with intricate designs, serve to decant and display your wine and also add an element of sophistication to your table.

Gold and Platinum Accents – For an extra dose of luxury, use crystal glassware decorated with gold or platinum accents. These metallic details add a royal touch to your table setting, making it perfect for formal gatherings and special celebrations.

Personalised Glassware – To make it truly your own, consider getting monogrammed crystal glassware. These glasses, customised with your initials or family crest, make for a distinctive and unique addition to your table setting.

Vintage-Crystal – Recapture the grace of bygone times with vintage-style crystal glassware. These pieces feature etched patterns and delicate shapes, evoking a time when attention to detail was paramount. The classic diamond and starburst patterns never go out of style.

Having stylish crystal glassware on your table setting improves the atmosphere, casting an ambience of sophistication and taste. Your choice of design will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and the occasion, but by exploring these different options, you can choose the perfect crystal glassware to make a splash at your next party. Keep in mind that the classic designs never really go out of style, making sure that your table setting is always chic.

A Full Guide to Decanting Wine for a More Enjoyable Experience!

Decanting is the process of transferring a wine from its original bottle to a different container, called a decanter. There are many types of decanters, but the most praised ones are crystal glass decanters. It is done for various reasons, such as allowing the wine to interact with oxygen and allowing for certain chemical reactions, removing wine sediment, and improving the wine’s aroma and flavour.

Why should you decant wine?

Decanting exposes the wine to oxygen. This causes a simple chemical reaction which helps to open up and develop its aroma and flavour. This is especially beneficial for young red wines with a high tannin content. Oxygen interaction softens the harsh tannins and allows the wine’s flavour and aroma profile (called bouquet) to become more pronounced, leading to a much more enjoyable wine-tasting experience.

Older wines, particularly red wines, can often develop sediment over time. Decanting helps to separate the clear liquid from any sediment that may have formed and settled in the bottle. This prevents gritty textures and undesirable bitter tannin flavours from being present in your glass. It also allows the wine’s aromas and flavours to fully express and develop, making it easier to appreciate the complexity and nuances of the wine.

How to decant wine?

Despite how complicated it may sound, decanting is a really simple process! Simply gather all the stuff – the wine bottle, the decanter (preferably a crystal glass decanter), a light source and your wine glasses. Stand the wine bottle upright for a few hours before decanting. This helps any sediment settle at the bottom of the bottle. Make sure the decanter is clean and free from any lingering odours.

Hold the decanter at a slight angle and start pouring the wine slowly and steadily into the decanter. This angle helps the wine slide down the side of the decanter, minimising the risk of splashing and disturbing sediment. As you pour, observe the wine’s colour and clarity. If you notice sediment approaching the neck of the bottle, you may want to slow down or stop pouring to prevent sediment from entering the decanter. Once the wine is decanted, you can allow it to sit for a short while (20-30 minutes) to allow it to aerate further and develop its aroma and flavour. That’s it, time to enjoy the wine! As you taste the wine, take note of how the wine’s bouquet has evolved due to the decanting process.