What is a silver bottle ticket?

A silver bottle ticket is an alternative name for a decanter label. It hangs from the neck of a glass bottle to name the wine or spirit inside. These small silver tags became popular on dining tables during the Georgian and Victorian periods to prevent guests from pouring the wrong drink.

How do I hang a decanter label?

Decanter labels are designed to hang around the bottleneck using a fine metal chain or a rigid silver collar. The chain threads through a loop fixed to the top of the label. When resting against the glass, the label hangs flat so the engraved title remains clearly visible to guests.

How do I date a silver bottle ticket?

Dating relies heavily on the hallmarks stamped into the silver, which record the assay office and year of testing. Stylistic clues such as Rococo Revival curves or plain Regency shields also point to specific eras. Makers' marks provide further evidence, linking pieces to recorded silversmiths active in known periods.

Did makers work in sets?

Silversmiths frequently produced matching sets of decanter labels to accompany multiple wine bottles on a dining table. Sets often included labels for claret, sherry, and madeira. Finding a matching set ensures a uniform appearance across different decanters during formal dining.