Wine was one of man's first ever inventions (it's been traced back to 6,000 BC) –which means we've had thousands of years of drinking to perfect it. And whether you're more partial to a glass of white, red or rosé, one thing we all seem to agree on is that wine just tastes better when it's poured from a decanter.
It's even been proven by science that transferring wine from the bottle into a decanter can have a tremendous impact on the overall quality of it – and make even the cheaper wines taste palatable.
Even the shape of the decanter can have varying effects on the flavour of the wine. But we feel this is something that needs to be put to the test – in the name of research, of course.
These are the wine decanters that are making quite the… erm… splash.
Ripple Carafe, £31,Ferm Living At Utility
Mouth blown into the mould, theRipple Carafe from Ferm Livinghas a beautiful rippled surface for a contemporary, dynamic expression. Strong in form as well as function, it enhances both the look and taste of wine by removing sediment, aerating the wine, facilitating pouring and providing elegant presentation.
Cobra Carafe, £48, Georg Jensen At John Lewis
With its liquid elegance and sinuously sculptural form, the Cobra carafe has become a best-selling classic. Its striking lines and shapes will add a hint of artistic chic to your table.
Prism Decanter,£396, Linley
Created exclusively for David Linley by Moser, this aquamarine crystal decanter is a show-stopper.
Prism Decanter,£396, Linley
Created exclusively for David Linley by Moser, this aquamarine crystal decanter is a show-stopper.
'O' Crystal Decanter, £175,Riedel At Selfridges
Whether you're serving a young or older wine, decanting will ensure clarity and brilliance by allowing any sediment to settle. With its elegant curved shape and clean lines, Riedel's O crystal decanter is an ideal addition to any wine connoisseurs collection.
Judson Decanter,£30, Habitat
The Judson clear glass decanter is a simple design distinguished by its over-sized cork.
Elegance Decanter, £150Waterford Crystal At Harrods
The refined yet modern design of Waterford Crystal'sElegance Tall Decanterwill make a welcome addition to a dinner party table setting.
Beau Han Xu Decanter In Crystal glass with Beau Cut Swarovski Gemstones, £900, William & Son
Living Etc's favourite, in this statement decanter, artist Beau Han Xu incorporates his signatureBeau Cut Swarovski crystals and liquid droplet that appears to be floating up from the bottom of the glass.