Do you adore the earthy, nutty, and spicy flavor of a classic whiskey? If yes, a whiskey decanter will make your drinking session even more classy. Yep, these beautiful glass containers that hold your favorite whiskey can add a bold statement to your drink. It is also a perfect gift for men. But before you reach for your wallet, get to know the best whiskey decanters and the answers to your frequently asked questions.
Our Top Picks
 
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Best Premium Whiskey Decanter - Ravenscroft Crystal Beveled Blade• Classy design |
Best Affordable Whiskey Decanter Set - Ashcroft 5-Piece Everest• Lead-free |
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Best Unique Decanter - Bourbon Liquor Barrel• 1-liter capacity |
Best Luxury Whiskey Decanters
The opulence of these whiskey decanters will get you extra points in class and sophistication. Get to know these lead-free crystal whiskey decanters that were handcrafted for your exacting taste.
1. Waterford Crystal Lismore Scotch Decanter
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What Customers Have to Say
A homeowner commented that this product is beautiful, solid, handsome, and functional. It is versatile enough to be used for any alcohol, and it is worth it.
Why We Think it's Great
We love the contemporary design of the Waterford crystal whiskey decanter. This is just what you need to exude the right amount of power and sophistication.
Who Should Buy it
If you're looking for a whiskey decanter to store your spirits in, this isn't for you since this is recommended for serving only. It only holds 18 oz., so this is perfect for people who are not heavy drinkers.
2. Zwiesel 1872 Handmade Crystal Whiskey Carafe
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What Customers Have to Say
Customers like that this decanter is solid and can be washed in the dishwasher without any issues, although they usually hand wash them out of habit.
Why We Think it's Great
Lead-free and strong enough for long-term use, this elegant decanter is constructed by world-renowned glassmakers. Made with your health and the environment in mind, this whiskey decanter is a great-buy and does not put a hole in your pocket.
Who Should Buy it
If you're looking for a high-quality whiskey decanter for an affordable price, this is your best choice. It has a lot of features wherein the quality and design are well chosen. Rest assured, your money will not go to waste.
Best Premium Decanters and Sets
These decanters are beautiful without putting a hole in your pockets. Lead-free and strong enough for long-term use, these elegant decanters are made by world-renown glassmakers, made with your health and the environment in mind.
3. Ravenscroft Crystal Beveled Blade Container
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What Customers Have to Say
Buyers stated that their decanter arrived earlier than they expected. They think the product was great, has a good heave feeling, and bright charisma. They love it and would recommend it to anybody.
Why We Think it's Great
We love its beautiful design. It will surely impress even the most exacting whiskey lover.
Who Should Buy it
This whiskey decanter is very safe to use. It is made with zinc and barium, which is quite expensive, but you’ll be paying less for this decanter. If you're searching for a cheap but high-quality decanter, you can give this one a try.
4. Ravenscroft Crystal Kensington Decanter Set
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What Customers Have to Say
Some customers bought this product as a present for their friends and families, and they loved it. Reviewers also indicated that the product feels nice, heavy, and looks very sleek. They recommend it to other whiskey connoisseurs.
Why We Think it's Great
This elegant crystal decanter set is a limited edition and is a treasure on its own. We are delighted that owning something so beautiful will always be the source of pride for the man of the house.
Who Should Buy it
This is for whiskey aficionados who require not just a decanter but a set of decanter and glasses. It saves money! This would also be perfect for those who love to collect limited edition pieces.
Best Affordable Decanters and Decanter Set
5. Ashcroft 5-Piece Everest Whiskey Decanter Set
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What Customers Have to Say
Buyers said that the whiskey decanter's glass is high-quality, durable, and the design is unique. They were also happy that the package came intact and the pieces were solid.
Why We Think it's Great
Sophistication doesn’t have to come at a high price, and that’s what we love about this decanter set.
Who Should Buy it
If you're the kind of whiskey lover that gives importance to safety, you'll be glad to hear that this product comes with the Ashcroft Perfect Delivery Guarantee. Ideal for both men and women, this decanter set would be a great piece to display if you're looking for an exclusive design.
6. Ashcroft 5-piece Twist Bourbon Decanter Set
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What Customers Have to Say
Buyers stated that they were beyond thrilled with the quality, design, and customer service. Also, the package arrived on time in nice packaging. Many people think it looks stunning.
Why We Think it's Great
Another Ashcroft masterpiece to grace your home, this elaborately designed decanter set is a welcome addition to your office or home bar. Boasting the world’s most transparent and bedazzling glasses, the Twist Decanter Set will gain you extra points for wowing your clients and friends, all without leaving a huge hole in your pocket. At less than $50, this is a real steal.
Who Should Buy it
Another product that offers the Perfect Delivery Guarantee, you won't have to worry about your money. This would be a great drink or display tool. If you know someone close to you who loves to drink whiskey, this will make a great gift.
7. Whiskey Decanter Gift Set “Pier” 5-Piece
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What Customers Have to Say
A customer bought this decanter set for her cousin, who loves whiskey a lot, and he is pleased with the packaging, quality, and look of this product. Another buyer also got this decanter set as a birthday gift for her friend, and it's better than she expected.
Why We Think it's Great
Created to provide class and convenience, this decanter set comes with a sturdy stopper that seals in the flavor and aroma of your whiskey.
Who Should Buy it
If you're looking for a beautiful decanter in exchange for a small amount of money, do not miss out on this product. It's a great offer considering its quality and beauty.
8. James Scott 6-piece Crystal Bar Set
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What Customers Have to Say
A customer was very pleased with the set because it looks amazing and feels heavy. She bought it for her husband, and he loves the product.
Why We Think it's Great
We adore the mirrored tray that comes with this awesome crystal decanter set. The tray saves your hardwood desk from water stains and eases serving.
Who Should Buy it
This whiskey decanter set is beautiful. It looks classy and is great if you're drinking with a small circle of friends or family. But it is also delicate, so you should give extra care. Hand washing and a soft cloth will do the job, and if that doesn't bother you, then this whiskey decanter is for you.
9. Whiskey Decanter Diamond-Shaped with Glasses
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What Customers Have to Say
An Amazon customer said the product has a good quality considering its price. The product looks elegant, and he gets a lot of compliments about it. Another customer bought this as a gift for her husband, and he was delighted with it and loved showing it off to his friends.
Why We Think it's Great
This uniquely designed whiskey decanter and glass set come with a mahogany stand to support the decanter. Adding class to your home or office bar, its design captures the sophistication you want to exude.
Who Should Buy it
If you're always searching for unique pieces, this whiskey decanter is a great find. Attention-grabbing, it is a great addition to your display. Remember that although the product is sturdy, it is quite thin.
10. Bormioli Rocco Dedalo 8-piece Set
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What Customers Have to Say
A customer said the purchase was great for the price and they would definitely order again. Another shopper also reported being in love with this product.
Why We Think it's Great
This beautiful whiskey decanter set has an ice bucket, tongs, and six glasses. The intricate weblike design is good enough for any classy bar setup. Lead-free and sturdy, you can use it to your heart’s content without worrying if it will break.
Who Should Buy it
Since it is complete with an ice bucket and glasses, this is the perfect whiskey decanter set for small gatherings. Please note that these aren't advisable for dishwashing.
Best Unique Decanters
11. Bourbon Barrel Liquor Decanter
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What Customers Have to Say
A whiskey connoisseur loved the craftsmanship on this one. He says the stand is nice and its size makes it convenient for traveling. It is made extremely well, and he would recommend it to anyone.
Why We Think it's Great
Looking for some unique decanter that you can proudly put on display, even without the liquor content? This glassware decanter will satisfy that desire.
Rustic and sophisticated is how this hand-blown decanter with a hand-hewn oak was designed. A hand-blown replica of The Tacoma, one of the famous rum-running ships during Prohibition, is at the center of this barrel decanter. Made by master craftsmen of Kentucky in the US, this whiskey decanter has a story to tell and perfectly ties the theme together.
Who Should Buy it
If you want to impress your friends at a party, you need to get this whiskey decanter. It is uniquely designed and holds a liter of alcohol. It would also be great as a display. The product comes with a 60-day warranty, so if you decide that you're not sure about the product, just get a refund.
12. Monterey Crystal Etched Globe Whiskey Decanter
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What Customers Have to Say
A patron got this decanter from Amazon as Valentine's gift for her husband. Meanwhile, another buyer got this for her fiance, and she loves how it was shipped securely by being wrapped in styrofoam.
Why We Think it's Great
This globe-shaped whiskey decanter is truly a work of art, making your drinks an exciting experience on its own. Large enough to hold 850ml of liquor, it also has an airtight seal to keep your whiskey in tiptop condition.
Who Should Buy it
This is another great and unique piece. Whether you use it for storing alcohol or as a part of your collection, the design is quite different from the rest, making it a great gift.
13. Diamond Whiskey Container
What Customers Have to Say
Customers said that this is a very classy item. They think that the glass and the wood look very gothic.
Why We Think it's Great
The Cullinan Diamond inspired this whiskey decanter, the largest gem-quality diamond ever found. The diamond, discovered in 1905 in a South African mine, was named after the mine's chairman Thomas Cullinan. It was so large that it was able to produce 9 major stones. This whiskey decanter was named Cullinan M to designate the 1-liter capacity of this decanter.
Crafted in Kentucky by master craftsmen, every purchase of this hand-blown decanter means a tree is planted. The wooden base is harvested in the tree farm of the company. Because of this, more trees are grown each year as part of their commitment to saving the environment.
Who Should Buy it
If you want to save the planet while still enjoying your drink, you may want to purchase this whiskey decanter. It boasts a beautiful and unique design, making it a head-turner. It also offers a 60-day warranty, so you don’t have to worry about your money’s worth.
Best Personalized Whiskey Decanter
14. Personalized 5-piece Whisky Decanter Set
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What Customers Have to Say
A buyer got this for his brother-in-law and it now proudly sits on his bar counter. Meanwhile, a lady got this decanter for his veteran boyfriend, and she said that he loves the army-inspired font used on the engraving.
Why We Think it's Great
We love that it can be personalized by engraving. Also, you don't have to wait too long to receive it.
Who Should Buy it
If you want to feel special or make someone else feel like a million bucks, you might want to get this product. You can personalize your glasses and decanters, and they do a pretty good job at customizing.
Things to Look for When Buying a Whiskey Decanter
When you buy a whiskey decanter, there is no definitive requirement to follow since the main purpose of decanting is purely aesthetics. But of course, you want one that will look not only pretty but also solid enough to contain your whiskey properly. Here are the whiskey decanter features you should consider before investing in one.
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Good Size
If you plan to decant a whole bottle of whiskey, you need a decanter that can hold at least 750ml of liquor. Decanters usually range from 500ml to 1L. Also, choose one with a thick coating so your liquor will not go to waste when the decanter accidentally breaks.
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Pleasing Design
Always consider your personality when buying a whiskey decanter. Since its purpose is mainly aesthetic, you might as well find something that represents your quirks or desire. A globe-trotting person may want some globe-shaped decanter with an airplane sculpture inside. Someone who is into Pirates of the Caribbean can have a pirate-themed decanter. For something classy and elegant, go for the classic gem designs that are never outdated.
You want your whiskey decanter to have an airtight seal, so it slows down the oxidation process. If your decanter does not have an airtight seal, you can always use a cork to lock it while not in use. Then, you can switch back to the original seal when serving.
Doing this may be bothersome, but there’s no need to throw away a beautiful decanter just because it does not have an airtight seal. It’s better to use a cork rather than drink stale liquor. However, newer versions of whiskey decanters have a rubber component in the stopper to provide additional protection. This way, you won’t have to compromise the beauty of your decanter.
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Lead-Free Crystal
While antique crystal decanters are beautiful, some may not be lead-free. It is better to invest in newly designed decanters as they are most likely to have passed the lead level inspection.
Lead is dangerous enough and if it leaches and reacts with the alcohol in the whiskey decanter, the damage is beyond repairable. But according to some experts, 50mg per liter of lead should be safe enough for daily ingestion. Also, consider the water we are drinking and the utensils we use may also contain lead. So, it is better to stay clear from any known lead source to minimize your daily intake.
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The Right Price
Don’t be fooled by an expensive whiskey decanter, as the price does not necessarily equate to quality. Decanters also come in sets so your whiskey glasses can keep up with the theme you have picked. A crystal decanter is usually more expensive than a glass decanter because of its beauty.
Whiskey Decanter FAQ
What is a whiskey decanter?
Glass decanters have been used as early as the Roman empire times. The earlier design of decanters has evolved from glassware, bronze, silver, and earthenware. It was usually manufactured without a stopper, so the wine is exposed to air all the time.
In the 1730s, glass stoppers were introduced with the increased use of glass decanters. Since then, the wide-body and slender neck of the glass whiskey decanter have remained the basic design. The designs have been innovated over the years, ranging from the classic design to the outrageous ones.
Why use a whiskey decanter?
The main reason to use a whiskey decanter is appearance and style. While designed with wine in mind, decanters' aesthetics had a strong pull on many drinkers to decant their spirits. The whiskey decanter is a symbol of beauty and power. It also allows one to serve spirits without prejudice since they can remain anonymous. Everyday spirits can look especially enticing when served in a decanter.
How long can you keep whiskey or other liquors in a decanter?
If you want to store whiskey in a decanter, be sure to find one that is tightly sealed so the alcohol does not evaporate. The length of a liquor’s shelf-life in the decanter is also dependent on the type of liquor. Wines can only go for days, but other spirits can last for years as long as the lock is airtight.
How long is whiskey good for?
Even if the whiskey stays in its original bottle, the shelf-life of an unfinished bottle decreases as the volume of the bottle's content also decreases. This is because there is more space that can be occupied by the air, speeding up oxidation. So if your bottle is halfway consumed, it is best to finish it in the shortest possible time.
Are crystal decanters safe?
Usually, antique crystal decanters have lead in their composition. While occasional consumption of lead is not lethal, lead is accumulative. So, daily consumption can result in more lead that the body can tolerate. Don’t store acidic food and beverages in crystal containers for longer than one week. Unless you plan to consume your liquor in one sitting, it is best to put it back into its original bottle.
Is there a way to check if my decanter has lead in it?
To check if your decanter has lead in it, hold it against the light. A rainbow on the glassware when the light is refracted means there is lead in the material. Also, look for a whiskey decanter labeled as “plain pressed glass”. Crystal also rings when tapped very lightly, heavier than ordinary glassware, and is more fragile. Glasswares are also less sparkly than crystal glasses because they do not reflect as much light.
Not all glass is crystal, but all crystal is glass. Depending on the guidelines, glassware can be labeled crystal if it contains more than 1% lead (US standards). European standards, however, are more lenient. It maintains that a lead content of more than 24% makes the glassware a crystal, a specific density of 2.9 and a reflective index of 1.549.
Is there a difference between a whiskey, bourbon, and a scotch decanter?
We only mean one thing when talking about the difference between whiskey, bourbon, and scotch decanters. Whiskey decanters can hold both bourbon and scotch since these two are types of whiskey.
Whiskey is a type of distilled alcoholic beverage from fermented grain mash. Various grains can be used, such as barley, corn, rye, and wheat. On the one hand, Scotch is a whiskey made from malted barley, wheat, and rye. There are 5 categories for whiskey, depending on the number of malted grains used in the distillation process and aged for at least 3 years.
Bourbon is made mostly from corn (at least 51% of the total cereal ingredients) and any other grains, including wheat and pseudocereals like amaranth, buckwheat, and quinoa. Pseudocereals are seeds that are ground or milled to use as a replacement for cereals. Bourbon is essentially an American whiskey.
Conclusion
Do you need a whiskey decanter for your whiskey? For aesthetic purposes, yes. For practicality, no.
If you are an occasional drinker and want to be in style while serving yourself a drink, you can buy a small whiskey decanter. For those who have an extensive bar and love to have a drink or two to cap their busy day, investing in a whiskey decanter might be a good idea.
Choose one from this list of best whiskey decanters that is right for your personality, style, and price range. Remember to choose one that is not high maintenance even if it is pricier, so you can enjoy it for years.