10 Best Wine Funnels In 2023: Buying Guide and Reviews
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There are many ways to improve the taste of wine. It can be by way of aerators or decanters, which are the most well-known ways of opening the wine’s flavors. There is another thing that has a similar purpose and has the look of a common kitchen tool. It is none other than the wine funnel. Wine funnels are said to have been around in the United Kingdom during the mid 18th century then declined in the 19th century. The first version during this time was just a bowl with holes and a smaller bowl or dish with finer holes to strain any solids in the wine. Later on, they were designed with long and narrow spigots and they were made with silver or bronze. They were also adorned with intricate designs on the surface.
In time, the spigot became curved so that the wine will gently flow by the vessel’s side. It may have dwindled and can be evidenced by the fact that it is no longer widely used, but you can still find wine funnels nowadays. And if you are interested in how it affects wine, then you can choose from the selected products below. Who knows? Maybe, wine funnels will rise to fame again.
Benefits of a Wine Funnel
These days, wine funnels are not commonly used by the masses so it’s understandable if you are curious about what they are truly used for. They actually have more than one purpose which proves to be helpful. And if you know them, perhaps they will lead you into buying one. Here they are:
Buying Guide
By now, you already have an overview of wine funnels. If you are convinced, you need to learn about further details about it so you have a clearer picture of what you want. Here are several factors to consider when buying a wine funnel:
Type
Material
They can be made from plastic, glass, or metal. Metal or stainless steel is the most used material since they are practical and don’t alter the wine’s taste. Plastic ones are not as durable while glass ones are risky. That’s why most of the products below are made from stainless steel. These also don’t differ that much with the original wine funnels.
Strainer
The strainer is important because it essentially separates the wine from the sediments, thus making it smoother. Strainers can have regular holes in very fine ones. Naturally, the finer it is, the better job it does at making the wine smooth and clear.
Size
Wine funnels pretty much have a standard size, but you have to watch out for the spout. Almost any wine funnel can fit in any decanter, given that decanters are large-mouthed and you can simply leave the funnel on top and pour in the wine. But remember that wine funnels are also used to refill the wine’s bottle. So, make sure that the spout can fit in a standard wine bottle’s narrow mouth.
Other features
Some wine funnels have handles so there is something to hold onto when pouring the wine. This also helps secure the funnel with your grip. This design was common even before. Other wine funnels include a stand where they can stay when not in use. This also prevents the funnel from being in contact with the table or surface. There are also others that are sold together with the decanter.
Top Picks
11 Best Wine Funnels
1. Rabbit Wine Aerator Shower Funnel - 2-piece solid construction for aerating and filtering
Pros
- Made with non-reactive stainless steel
- Fine mesh lining strainer
- Multi-opening aeration tip
- Sturdy
- Easy to clean
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons
- Short stem
- Strainer clogs up
What customers are saying about the product:
Camelia has shared a transcript of a conversation of Amazon CEO, Jeff Bezos and Amazon Prime member, Bradley N. who’s also the head sommelier of The Redwood Bistro about the product. Bradley says that the Rabbit Wine Shower-Funnel is almost like you’ve got your very own sommelier at your service. In summary, Bradley remarks that the Rabbit wine funnel is “such a great, durable, and useful tool for sommeliers and wine writers like me who appreciate its quality craftsmanship and ingenious design, rather than just letting it collect dust in the back of a kitchen drawer”
Why we think this is a great product:
It is designed in a way that allows the drinker to be not as tense when partaking in wine. It is multi-purpose and the shape makes it possible to simply place it on a decanter so you can pour the wine in a carefree way. The holes in the spout also help in speeding the aeration so you can enjoy the wine immediately.
Who should buy it:
This device is perfect for the wine drinker who doesn't like to wait for hours before he/she gets to enjoy wine.
2. Cuisinox Wine Funnel - The trusty wine tool for removing sediments
Pros
- Easy to use
- Flows quickly
- Easy to clean
- Outstanding, quick service
- Fits most decanters
Cons
- Chain rusts
What customers are saying about the product:
Zimmer comments that this is large enough to fit over most decanters and the hook on the side enables it to hang off the edge if a decanter is extra wide. After 5 years, it is still her go-to for wine and she didn’t buy a new one since it didn’t need replacing. There is no pitting nor rust after frequent uses and cleaning. On the other hand, southernbelle loves that she can enjoy a full bottle of wine and not waste the last drop. She uses this when pouring into a glass and when she’s decanting.
Why we think this is a great product:
This funnel is best known for its extraordinary filter because it is so fine that a lot of sediments get filtered every time. It is also attached to the funnel with a chain so you don't have to worry about losing it.
Who should buy it:
If you’re the kind of person who doesn’t like the solid bits in old fine wine, then this funnel would be a big help.
3. Wine Enthusiast Aerating Funnel - Compact wine tools for a smoother consistency
Pros
- Great quick aeration
- Easy to store and clean
- Perpendicular drain holes
- Sleek style
- Comes with a stand
Cons
- Some customers didn’t receive a stand
- Doesn’t fit some bottles
What customers are saying about the product:
Christopher shares that he had a tasting with 30 bottles from 1990 down to 1958 and says that this funnel set was indispensable. He added that the filter fits nicely into the glasses and this makes it possible to decant the wine back into the bottles. Meanwhile, Karen shares that she bought this as a gift, and the giftee was delighted. She also has one which she uses frequently. She remarks that it looks nice and does the job.
Why we think this is a great product:
Whether you’re filtering into your decanter or straight to your glasses, this funnel’s got you. The funnel is removable and can easily catch the sediments. The stand also lets the funnel hang at a designated place when it’s idle.
Who should buy it:
This would make a terrific gift for a friend or relative who loves wine. Or if you want to treat yourself, you can also buy this for yourself.
4. Norpro Funnel - Aerates, filters and perfect for decanters and narrow-mouthed bottles
Pros
- Great value
- Quick delivery
- Curved spout
- Prevents splashing
- Versatile
- Works greatly
Cons
- The strainer is not really secure in the funnel
- Small
What customers are saying about the product:
SRP comments that this funnel’s size is perfect and allows for comfortable pouring. The filter is also nice and fits inside the funnel without moving while pouring. He has used this to pour wine from the bottle to the decanter and to the bottle again. William says that Norpro has a really good strainer that works perfectly for the older wines he poured. He also found them wide enough to use on Bordeaux glasses and two decanters he was using.
Why we think this is a great product:
There’s no doubt that this funnel can filter the sediments from wine. It is also easy to clean since the filter is removable. And the hook on the side makes it easier to transfer wine since you can hold it or hook it to something when pouring.
Who should buy it:
This funnel is most useful for aerating and straining big amounts of wine.
5. Houdini Wine Decanter with Wine Shower Funnel - Classic funnel design for quick aeration and good tasting wine
Pros
- Great deal
- The spout has holes for even distribution of wine
- Non-messy pour
- Functions well
- Improves wine’s taste
Cons
- Decanter is a bit thin
- The spout may not fit other bottles
What customers are saying about the product:
Josh And Jessica say that this is the best wine decanter for the price (photo). Meanwhile, Revelation shares that he never knew how many particulates were in his red wine. For him, it is fun to pour the red wine in the funnel and watch it run down the side. It filters and aerates the wine and remarks that it is elegant.
Why we think this is a great product:
This set is absolutely terrific because not only does it feature a trusty wine funnel but also a decanter for a very affordable price.
Who should buy it:
This makes a great gift to a friend or family. And if you want to save money, this set is for you.
6. Rabbit Super-Aerating Decanter System - Makes a big difference in wine’s overall taste
Pros
- Comes with a decanter
- Secure packaging
- Easy to use
- Well-made
- Fine filter
- Great aeration process
Cons
- Glass is thin
- Not for bottles
What customers are saying about the product:
Maria shares that she purchased this decanter set as a gift. She added that she is familiar with the Rabbit brand and she trusts that it will not disappoint. The drum packaging also keeps the decanter safe from breakage (1st photo). On the other hand, Skeddy never thought that decanting can improve the taste of any average wine but this set convinced him that it does (2nd photo).
Why we think this is a great product:
The wine funnel looks a bit unconventional compared to the others in the list but it works great especially in separating the sediments from the wine and improving its taste. It’s also fascinating to look at when you pour the wine in the decanter.
Who should buy it:
If you’re the kind of person who likes any type of wine, then this decanter and funnel set is perfect for making it taste like an expensive type of wine.
7. Plaisir de la Cave Steel Funnel with Strainer - Multiple streams for maximum aeration
Pros
- Very affordable
- Efficient
- Comes with holder and drip tray
- Keeps small cork bits out of the wine
- Makes pouring easier
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Poor quality control; some received a strainer with a big hole
- The metal material of the strainer is thin
What customers are saying about the product:
Richard says that the quality is excellent and that it is very easy to use and clean. The price is great and he would definitely purchase again. Meanwhile, D. Meder says that this is a must-have device for every wine lover. For him, it is very well-made and larger than it looks. It also works well with 3 different-sized decanters he has.
Why we think this is a great product:
This nifty little device is designed for three purposes: pouring, aerating, and decanting and each task is done superbly. The stand is cute but also proves to be functional and also helps in catching the drips from the spout. Speaking of the spout, this one has 10 little holes surrounding the tip intended for making the wine better instantly.
Who should buy it:
This wine funnel set can fit in almost any decanter as well as bottles and glasses. When you pour the wine, it is also very cool to look at.
8. True Fabrication Decanter Funnel - Pours wine evenly into the vessel
Pros
- Quick delivery
- Strains sediments well
- Aerating slits to spray wine at the side of the decanter
- Wide rim
Cons
- Strainer moves when placed on the funnel
- A slow flow of wine
- Doesn’t fit in some wine bottles
What customers are saying about the product:
Shearer comments that this funnel works well and that it cleans up nicely. He highly recommends this product. On the other hand, another Amazon customer says that this tool is good for aerating his wine. Finally, Lawrence shares that this works just like what he saw his favorite winery.Why we think this is a great product:
This wine funnel has a standard shape but the addition of the holes at the tip of the spout makes it aerate the wine really well since it lets the wine flow down the sides of the decanter. The strainer is also shaped like a small bowl and it helps in catching the sediments and cork bits in wine.
Who should buy it:
If you are the type of wine drinker who likes to give time for aerating wine, give this wine funnel a try!
9. Epic Products Wine Decanting Funnel - Simple but functional for maximum aeration and filtering
Pros
- Versatile
- Strains well to make wine clearer
- Makes a great gift
- Perfect for wine decanters
Cons
- The filter is a bit porous
What customers are saying about the product:
Perky says that she likes having the filter on its own stand. She knows that this was designed mainly for wine but she also uses it for kombucha. Meanwhile, Alfred says that this is a very good product and he loves the stylish nature. He is new to winemaking and this makes a good addition to his supplies. Finally, Kelly also loves this and shares that she and her friends had a taste test and picked the wine that was filtered and aerated with this gadget. She remarks that it was worth the purchase.
Why we think this is a great product:
This wine funnel depicts the older version because of the handle and the curved spout. It is designed as such for the maximum aeration process and with the help of the removable strainer, you will have clear and great wine in no time.
Who should buy it:
This device would come in handy if you are to make your own wine or other brews.
10. Vinotemp Aerating Funnel Set - Prevents wastage of wine
Pros
- Mellows out wine’s flavors
- Innovative and attractive design
- Comes with a stand with a rubber base
- Captures fine sediments
- Convenient with cleaning and storing
- Compact
Cons
- C-shaped part of the stand is flimsy
- Short spout
What customers are saying about the product:
Miss Jones shares that she was impressed with this product’s appearance considering that it was her first time buying one of these. For her, it is sturdy and very easy on the eyes. Her husband also likes it. Meanwhile, Tomonthebeach says that this appliance is worth trying for a 1-year old Pinot. He says that it almost instantly ages the wine mellows the flavor. The stainless steel screen also saves the day when the cork is wetter than expected and small bits fall into the wine. He used it for a 3-year old Bordeaux and he said that it tasted like it was 7 or 8 years old.
Why we think this is a great product:
A set like this is surely fun to use and really makes any wine taste better. The stand is a great feature because it saves the dripped wine from the spout after use. You can use this device when pouring into decanters or straight to your wine glass.
Who should buy it:
This would make a great addition to your wine arsenal as it proves to be beneficial and useful.
FAQs
Q1. Why do you aerate wine?
Wine is a delicate and complicated drink composed of many compounds such as tannins, ethanol, and sulfites that can help protect the wine from microbial activity and preserve it, but they tend to have an unpleasant smell. Aerating wine can lead to oxidation and evaporation that can mellow out the less desirable traits brought by those compounds. This is why we often hear the phrase, “let the wine breathe”, which simply means, introduce air to it so it can reach the optimal taste and smell. And there are plenty of ways of aerating wine such as using aerators, decanters, funnels, swirling in the glass, or simply opening the bottle of wine.
Q2. Can you really filter sulfites out of wine?
Sulfites are very fine particles that are naturally occurring in wine. Though they help in preserving the wine, some people are sensitive to it. With this, they filter their wine by way of food-grade hydrogen peroxide, which can oxidize sulfites or wine purifiers. Can wine funnels remove sulfites? Not completely, because the strainer is made of metal rather than cloth and some of the sulfites may still get through the holes.
Q3. Does aerating wine reduce alcohol?
When you leave wine exposed to air for days, it tends to lose its concentration which is often mistaken as the alcohol being reduced but this isn't really the case. Even if the alcoholic taste seems faded, the alcohol percentage has not really changed. It actually takes a long time and a more complicated process and you can click here if you want to learn more about it.
Q4. What are the side effects of sulfites in wine?
As mentioned, sulfites are a type of preservative that occur in the wine during the fermentation process to protect it from microbes, prevent it from browning, and to give it a fresher taste and longer shelf life. But, when it comes to side effects to the drinker, there have been debates as to sulfites being the cause of headaches among other afflictions. However, a small percentage of people are really sensitive to sulfites and a number of them are also found to be asthmatic and when they consume too much wine, it can lead to headaches and respiratory risks.
Q5. Does removing sulfites from wine change the taste?
Sulfites don’t really have a taste as opposed to tannins that are responsible for making wine taste bitter. But removing them results in smoother consistency of wine and makes it more tolerable for people with a sensitivity to sulfites.
Conclusion
Usually, a funnel is associated with cooking and even in cocktail making. It turns out that it also contributes much to wine after all. They help in removing sediments in older wine and softens the hard notes in young wines, resulting in clearer, smoother, and better-tasting drinks. If you are an avid fan of wine, be sure to give the mighty wine funnel a try!