Sommelier Breathing Decanters

Each Ravenscroft Sommelier lead-free crystal decanter is hand blown by old world European craftsmen and produced from ancient mineral deposits free of impurities. Using such pure raw materials eliminates the need to add lead content in order to produce brilliant crystal. This is particularly important following the recent discovery that long-term storage in leaded decanters can result in lead leaching into the contents.

Typically, lead is added to aid in the manufacturing process as it softens glass making it easier to mold and cut designs. To cut leaded crystal requires only one quick cut on a grinding wheel. The decanter is then dipped into an acid bath to quickly polish the cut.

With unleaded crystal, the first cut is much more difficult and time consuming as the glass has not been softened by lead. Secondly, lead-free crystal cannot be simply dipped into an acid bath to quickly polish the cut. It must go back on a wheel and be painstakingly hand polished to perfection.

Handcrafted by the most highly committed European craftsmen, our Ravenscroft Sommelier Decanters are available in shapes and sizes to meet the needs of the world of fine wine. The breathing decanters combine a long neck for oxidation during the decanting process with a broad, shallow reservoir for further aeration while the wine rests before serving.

In the 125West Wine Cellar, you will find specialty products for Wine Service and Wine Storage. Please feel welcome to call the 125West Concierge at the toll-free number 888-921-9378 for personal assistance.