Carafes & Decanters
Carafes and decanters are pouring vessels for wine, water and spirits used in restaurants, hotels and pubs, with decanters and carafes most commonly holding 50cl to 1.5 litres, and smaller 25-35cl carafes for individual serves. The key buying consideration is choosing lead-free crystal or soda-lime glass, with decanters additionally judged on how well their shape aerates wine. “Wine decanter” and “carafes” are the two leading buyer search terms for this category.
Key specifications
Carafes and decanters are specified by capacity and shape. Stock most commonly runs 50cl to 1.5 litres, with smaller 25-35cl carafes for single-glass serves and larger pieces for table water and magnum decanting. Wine decanters use a wide, bellied base to increase the wine’s contact with air, speeding aeration for young, tannic reds, while straight-sided carafes suit house wine and water where aeration matters less. Material is lead-free crystal for clarity and premium presentation, or soda-lime glass for hard-wearing everyday house-wine and water service. Look for a stable base, a drip-free pouring lip and, on decanters, a stopper to hold aroma. Used across restaurants, hotels, pubs and event catering.
Carafes & Decanters — FAQs
Does a decanter need a wide base to aerate wine properly?
Yes — a wider-bellied decanter increases the wine’s surface area contact with air, speeding up aeration for young, tannic reds, while a narrower carafe shape is sufficient for house wine service or water.
What size carafe is standard for house wine service?
House wine carafes are commonly sold in 25cl, 50cl, 75cl and 1 litre sizes to match standard bar measures, with 1.5 litre carafes for larger tables, letting venues offer wine by the carafe alongside by-the-glass options.
Lead-free crystal or soda-lime glass for decanters?
Lead-free crystal gives extra clarity and a more refined presentation for premium wine service, while soda-lime glass carafes are more affordable and better suited to everyday house wine and water service.