How do I clean an old decanter?

Fill the vessel with warm water and specialised cleaning beads, then swirl gently to remove sediment without scratching the interior glass. Avoid using harsh detergents or putting antique glass into a dishwasher, as thermal shock can crack the material.

What is the purpose of neck rings?

The horizontal rings around the neck provide a secure grip for greasy or wet fingers when lifting heavy lead crystal from the cellar. They also serve as a stylistic marker for Regency and Georgian production methods.

Why use a silver wine funnel?

Port produces natural sediment as it ages, and the funnel filters these solids through a built-in mesh strainer during decanting. Silver provides a durable, non-reactive surface that maintains the flavour profile of the fortified wine.

How do I identify a port label?

Decanter labels are small silver tags suspended by chains that specifically name the contents to prevent confusion at the dinner table. Georgian and Victorian examples often feature pierced decoration and legible maker marks or date letters.