Notes & queries

Decanter shapes, sulphites in wine, Bordeaux third and fourth wines

Do different wine styles require different shapes of decanter? Su Collins, Surbiton, Surrey Martin Turner replies: While Riedel stemware is grape-varietal specific, our decanters are not. That said, we do make recommendations depending on style. Decanters with serpentine forms, twists and turns (like our Mamba and Eve styles), are extreme aerators, so perfect for young, complex reds and whites. Wine flows into a central chamber and the coil design forces more air through when serving. This double decants the wine.

By contrast, less vertiginous shapes like Amadeo and Tyrol allow more control over aeration of a mature or sparkling wine (the latter may lose up to 15% of the mousse, but the aromas and taste will be enhanced).

Any wine with sediment will benefit from a careful pour into an unadorned, crystal-clear, wide-necked decanter – the perfect shape for Port should have an aperture circumference identical to its height. For chilling, a slender decanter fits in the fridge door or ice bucket.