Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a lovely glass of Scotch Whiskey to sip on in the wee hours. And it’s even finer if it’s been poured from a quality decanter that looks vintage classic above your liquor cabinet. Unlike wine that gets aerated in a decanter, Scotch does not change when discharged into your liquor vessel. As the experts say, Whiskey is a finished product!

You see wine is different, it has sediment that has been sitting at the base of the bottle for a period of time. Sometimes for many years. So, by transferring it to an alternate container, you leave the sediment behind. This also allows the wine to breathe as you’ve released the aromas that have been bottled up inside. Your red wine will always taste better once it’s been opened for 20-30 minutes.

So the main reason to purchase a Scotch decanter, is for aesthetic reasons. A lovely glass decanter will always look better than a dusty old bottle in the bottom of your liquor cabinet. And while it’s nice to let a Scotch breathe a little, you will not notice any difference in taste or aroma.

So you’ve been searching for that perfect decanter as a present, or maybe for your good self. But how do you know what to look for, and why are some decanters better than others? Read on for our brief buying guide to help you out. You’re sure to pick up a thing or two.

Scotch Decanter Buying Guide

You are in the market for an exquisite Scotch Whiskey decanter, but you really need to know if there are any pros or cons to purchasing different varieties. In fact, there certainly is. Here’s what to look for when buying a scotch whiskey decanter.

Component

Firstly, there’s the question of material, being either glass or crystal. Both are extremely classy but the one major concern to look out for, is that when buying a crystal decanter, it may contain traces of lead.

Our best advice is to search for a glass or lead-free crystal decanter. You’ll find that the cheaper versions of decanters are the more likely ones to contain lead. This can be quite harmful. The reason being that the proof of whiskey is very strong. So strong in fact that it’s very possible for lead to seep into your whiskey.

Now many of us, me included, tend to have more than one scotch whiskey at a time. We also drink with friends and acquaintances, which I’m sure you don’t intend ill will. So, steer clear of leaded crystal decanters just to be on the safe side. Luckily for us, most crystal decanters these days are made lead-free, but it certainly pays to check.

I wouldn’t worry about lead crystal glasses containing lead though. Your favorite liquor will not stay in the glass long enough for the lead to seep into the liquid itself. It’s only a worry in decanters because it can stay in there for months or more.

Flagon Size

Now, another point to keep in mind when on the lookout for a great scotch whiskey decanter, is the size of the flagon itself. Decanters range in size so if you prefer to only add small amounts of whiskey at a time, a petite decanter may be best for you. However, if you’re like most people and intend filling your decanter with a full 750ml bottle, you will be looking in the larger department. I’ll see you there!

Capping Seal

One last thing to consider when it comes to your due diligence, is making sure you have an air-tight seal. We’ve mentioned how wine prefers to be aerated, scotch doesn’t require this. For this reason, you’ll want to transfer your whiskey to the decanter and seal it with a snug fitting seal cap. Keep in mind that when the relocation of your favorite fluid takes place, it’s already been removed from its preferred environment. That is the original bottle. So, keeping it securely air-tight with no leaks of oxygen into the decanter will only preserve the essence of this marvelous liquor.

How pretentious are you? If you’re willing to pay that little extra, then you’ll be able to show of your best whiskey decanter to you visitors in your ideal home bar. Then again, you may be a more reserved type of person and just want a nice decanter for that longing scotch at the end of a hard day’s work.

Whatever the reason, there is a scotch decanter for every occasion and every type of character. With various styles, sizes and prices, we’ve covered quite a few for you to search through. Take a browse and see if any of these appeal to you. These guides are in no particular order.

You’ll be the envy of all your friends with this eye-catching glass World Globe decanter. This is one of my favorite decanters as it features a glass ship on the inside of the bottle. How cool! The outside of the globe matches the 2 wonderful whiskey glasses included, as they have an embossed map of the world. The mahogany stained timber base of the decanter softens the whole unit, making it a class piece of bar furniture.

The whiskey decanter is hand blown and shows pure elegance. There’s also a gold stopper that will keep your favorite scotch whiskey sealed, preventing oxygen into the decanter whilst preserving all the greatness!

You’ll be able to fill the decanter with a genuine 850ml bottle as the full capacity is 850ml. The capacity of the glasses is 300ml allowing a prefect measure to be consumed.

You won’t have to worry about quality as this decanter is created by Royal Reserve who have specialized in handcrafted silver, pewter, stainless, crystal and alternative metal giftware.

As you can clearly see, there’s a lot to love with this wonderfully unique glass whiskey decanter. The 2 embossed whiskey glasses are a great addition also.

Features

850ml capacity

2 embossed 300ml whiskey glasses

Gold stopper to seal in the spirits.

Antique ship within hand blown decanter.

If you’re looking for a Scotch decanter that makes a statement without looking like it belongs in a novelty gift shop, the TsukiGlass Storm is worth a look. Inspired by Japanese minimalist design and the power of a storm, this decanter has bold geometric lines and a substantial weighted base that give it a distinctly modern appearance.

Made from ultra-clear, lead-free crystal, the Storm holds a full 750ml bottle of your favorite Scotch, bourbon or whiskey. The clarity of the crystal allows the color of your whisky to shine through, while the solid construction gives it that reassuring feeling of quality when you pick it up. It also comes with a fitted glass stopper designed to keep your whisky sealed between pours.

What I really like about this one is that it manages to look impressive without going over the top. There are plenty of flashy decanters around, but the Storm takes a more understated approach. It’s the sort of piece that would look equally at home on a well-stocked bar, office shelf or dining table.

It also comes gift-ready, making it a great choice for the Scotch lover who appreciates good design. Fill it with a favorite bottle, sit back and admire it—because sometimes the decanter deserves almost as much attention as the whisky!

Features

Lead free

750ml capacity decanted

Airtight glass stopper

4 unique glasses

If you like your Scotch with a little attitude, the LUXULISH Whiskey Gun Decanter is certainly going to get people talking. This quirky revolver-style decanter is a long way from the traditional crystal decanter, but that’s part of its appeal. Sitting on a wooden display stand, it makes a great centerpiece for a home bar, games room or man cave.

The decanter is made from lead-free glass and holds around 9oz of your favorite Scotch, while the set also includes two matching 2.5oz shot glasses. It’s not designed for storing an entire bottle of whisky, but that’s not really the point. This is a fun way to serve a dram when you have friends around and want something a little more interesting than simply reaching for the bottle.

I particularly like the novelty factor here. The revolver design gives it plenty of personality without looking completely out of place among your other barware. It would also make an entertaining gift for the whisky lover who already has all the conventional glasses and decanters they need.

Load it up with your favorite Scotch, take aim at the weekend, and pour yourself a shot. Just remember, this is one gun that should only ever be loaded with whisky!

Features

​Amazing firearm design

Gift Boxed

Handmade with lead-free glass

2 x 2.50 oz shot glasses

Inspired by the hunt, the adventure and the Spanish bull. Maybe not for everyone but certainly a head turner in terms of its whimsy style mixed with grace and sophistication. The Charging Bull glass scotch decanter will make a statement sitting atop your liquor cabinet.

Crafted from borosilicate glass which is thicker and stronger, it would add flair to any home or office. Even though the glass is stronger, it’s still advised that you wash this decanter by hand.

If you are searching for that perfect gift, this is one of those ornaments that will get noticed, and certainly a unique piece. It would look great in a log cabin, man cave or lodge. You could also give this as a wedding gift, best man gift or even Father’s Day.

There are no whiskey glasses included with this decanter so keep that in mind if purchasing this product. There’s also no tray included, it’s just the decanter. However, that’s the whole point of this extremely uncommon, yet classic whiskey decanter.

Even though it may look like not a lot will fit in the decanter, looks can be deceiving. With a 1000ml capacity, it will fill a whole 750ml bottle plus more!

Features

Hand Blown Glass

Spanish Bull inspiration

Borosilicate glass

1000ml

Here’s a twist, literally! Don’t you just admire the lovely elegant twist in this decanter set? This is one of my top picks as I find it so classy, stylish and takes a full 750ml bottle of whiskey. Welcome to the ‘FineDine Twist Glass Decanter and Whiskey Glass Set’.

You’re liquor corner will dazzle with sophistication and luxury when you buy this gorgeous 5-piece set. Comprising 4 wonderfully designed whiskey glasses with asymmetrical twisted glass at the bottom making the tumblers sturdier via its strength. Not only do these glasses look spectacular, they feel comfortable to hold, and sip out of. They are also a perfect size to accommodate whiskey balls or cubes.

Your decanter will stay solid on the top of your bar due to it’s heavier base of thicker twisted glass. The last thing you need is an unbalance decanter that can tilt from side to side.

The glass stopper for this decanter is also heavier, which makes the seal fitting more air tight due to gravity. This preserves the freshness of your beverage every time you pour a new drink.

Even though this is an awesome gift for somebody, I’d find it hard not to have it for myself! It does come gift boxed though, in a high-end glossy box with magnetic closure. The glassware will stay protected as it’s nestled in custom fitted foam protection.

This really is a choice for the stylish whiskey connoisseur.

Features

750ml decanter capacity

High quality 100% glass

Heavy glass stopper

Thick base for sturdiness

Dishwasher safe (hand wash recommended)

Artistic twist shape

Rolled rim opening (for a smoother pour)

If you like to show off a little, then this whiskey decanter set can do the job extremely well.

You see it doesn’t just have monogrammed glasses & decanter, the tray also comes complete with your monogrammed name & initial. In fact, you don’t really need to be a show-off as these are just a stylish addition that will please anyone.

This is a 6-piece set including 4 Eastham glasses that can contain up to 10oz of your preferred liquor. Each glass will be monogrammed with the name and initial of your choice, making them a very personal keepsake.

The whiskey decanter, which holds 24oz (roughly 709ml) is a lovely size even though it will not quite take a full 750ml bottle of scotch whiskey. The shape of the decanter I really like and comes with a glass stopper that fits snugly into the top opening.

Now the tray is what sets this set apart. It’s made from premium American birch wood with an acrylic glass stand for your decanter and glasses to slip into. This is a great idea so that you can carry it from room to room without worrying about spillage or shaking. It’s also monogrammed and is framed with carbon steel accents.

A wonderful gift for any whiskey lover, it will take prime position in any room. Preferably your bar or man cave.

Features

Monogrammed glassware

Excellent quality

Birchwood bar Tray

Monogrammed tray

Gift Boxed

How would you like to take the guess work out of your next gift? If you were buying this for me I’d certainly be overjoyed! I’ve mentioned to you earlier that I really like decanters & glasses that have a solid base from having a twist in the glass. It not only makes the products more stable, they also add a touch of class and opulence.

JayJolt have crafted the Altas 5-piece whiskey decanter in this same style and I love it. You will benefit from having a 100% lead free decanter that had been hand made by professional artisans. The lasting impression you get from a decanter like this genuine class.

A heavy glass stopper will ensure all the goodness is kept within the decanter.

4 exquisite whiskey glasses accompany the wonderful decanter. They are perfect for entertaining guests and are wide enough for ice stones or ice itself. You will like the fact that they are also dishwasher safe so there is no fear of breakage or even slight damage.

You can be sure that your decanter set will arrive safely, as a 1-year satisfaction guarantee is offered if the item is damaged in any way upon arrival. That’s good to know! They will send a replacement free of charge. However, the scotch decanter set comes in a stylish embossed gift box, so breakage should not be an issue.

Features

100% Lead-free crystal

Stylish design

Hand Crafted

Gift Boxed

Dishwasher Safe

With so many decanters and decanter sets to choose from, it can be hard to make the correct choice. I’m going to give you something else to think about here! Would you purchase a product just because it’s been featured in a magazine? Well many would and that’s exactly what’s happened with this Ravenscroft crystal old fashioned decanter set.

This is more of a traditional shaped decanter with the round body and narrow neck with flared spout to prevent any spillage when pouring. Complete with round stopper, it has been hand crafted in Europe capturing the essence of European inspiration. Who doesn’t enjoy a touch of Europe!

Encompassing 4 glasses in classical style to match the decanter, each with a capacity of 11oz. The bottom of each glass has a mouth blown bubble design that only a few glassblowers are skilled enough to achieve. It’s a decoration and artistry that should be appreciated.

The glasses are dishwasher safe but as many companies recommend, it’s best to hand wash. With these particular glasses, hand-wash because of the mouth-blown bubble in the bottom.

Features

Pure, Clean, Lead-free Crystal.

Quality Handmade Decanter

34 oz (1,030ml) decanter capacity

11 oz (330ml) glass capacity

Featured in In Style Magazine!

If your idea of a good day involves 18 holes followed by a generous pour of Scotch, the Winslow Whiskey Golf Set could be right up your fairway. This isn’t just a whiskey decanter; it’s a complete serving setup designed with the golf-loving whisky drinker in mind.

The set includes a 26oz Carson whiskey decanter with a secure stopper, two or more golf-ball-inspired whiskey glasses depending on the configuration you choose, a black marble serving tray and a handy little bowl for snacks or garnishes. The combination of black marble and warm wood gives the whole set a surprisingly classy appearance, while the golf-ball glasses add just enough personality to remind everyone where your loyalties lie.

I particularly like the serving tray, as it keeps everything together rather than having your decanter, glasses and snacks scattered around the bar. The decanter can also be personalized, which makes this an excellent gift for a golfer, whisky lover, retiree or anyone who thinks the 19th hole is the best hole on the course.

It’s stylish enough for the home bar but fun enough to become a conversation starter. Fill the decanter with your favorite Scotch, grab a golf-ball glass and settle in. After all, the best round of golf is always the one followed by a drink!

Features

Solid Marble Tray

26-Ounce Whiskey Decanter

Monogrammed Engraving

Golf Ball Glasses

What an ideal whiskey decanter for the gruesome, the Gothic or the simply outrageous. Although it’s ideal for a Halloween party, it can be used simply to startle your guests.

This decanter is crafted from solid glass with a unique floating skull on the inside. Do you have friends that would find this eerie?

It stands at 10.5″ tall and holds up to 33 ounces. The skull decanter comes with a glass stopper which has a rubber base, holding in all the flavor and aroma of your favorite liquor.

I’d be using this for whiskey myself, but of course you could insert any fine liquor. It would certainly look great next to your man cave furniture.

You’ll be the life of your next party when your guests check this out.

Features

Amazing detail in the skull

Decanter stands 10.5″ tall with a 3.75″ base

Holds 33 ounces

Perfect for Halloween

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It won’t cost you anything extra.

Conclusion

In the end it all comes down to personal taste when searching for the best scotch decanter or decanter set. Obviously price comes into it and for me, my favorite is the ‘FineDine Twist Glass Decanter’. It’s not as expensive as some others and still comes with 4 glasses. I just love the twisting in the glass whish makes the base sturdier and just looks so graceful.

A whiskey decanter is such a elegant piece that it will look right at home alongside your cocktail shaker set in the corner of your bar.

There are many factors that can come into play when deciding on your decanter, most I’ve mentioned in the preview guide. I hope I’ve helped with some suggestions, and you can decide with an open mind. Best of luck.

If you’d like to share your favorite with us, please feel free to add to the discussion below.