Williams Sonoma Heritage Wine Decanter

The indentation at the base of the decanter is designed to create a larger surface area for the wine. By spreading the wine out more thinly across the bottom, it exposes more of the liquid to oxygen, which helps soften tannins and release aromas more effectively than a flat-bottomed vessel.

Only the glass decanter and the aerator are dishwasher safe. The other components, such as the cork coaster and brass-plated stainless steel accents, should be hand-washed to preserve their finish and integrity.

Not necessarily. The aerator is a tool for rapid oxygenation, which is particularly useful for younger, bolder red wines that need to 'open up' quickly. For older, more delicate vintages, you may prefer to use the decanter alone to avoid over-aerating the wine.

The decanter holds 80 ounces, which is quite generous. This size is ideal for decanting standard 750ml bottles, but it also provides plenty of headspace to swirl the wine comfortably without splashing.

To keep the brass-plated stainless steel looking its best, wipe it down with a soft, damp cloth and dry it immediately. Avoid using abrasive sponges or harsh chemical cleaners, as these can scratch or strip the brass finish over time.