How do I clean an old decanter?

Wash the glass gently by hand using warm water and mild detergent, avoiding harsh abrasives that might scratch the surface. Ensure silver mounts remain dry and do not submerge silver-plated frames for extended periods. For internal residue, use specialist cleaning beads with water rather than harsh chemicals which can damage vintage glass or historic stoppers.

Are these decanters safe for modern wine?

Most glass decanters from the Victorian and Edwardian periods remain entirely suitable for holding and serving wine today. Inspect the interior first to ensure no stubborn staining or residue remains from previous contents. Note that older lead crystal can leach minute amounts of lead if liquid is stored in it for weeks, but serving wine for a dinner party presents no practical risk.

How do I match a stopper to a decanter?

Matching a loose stopper involves checking the ground glass portion of the neck and the peg to ensure the taper and diameter align. Original stoppers often bear a matching number scratched or cut into the base. If a stopper sits too high or wobbles, it likely belongs to a different vessel, as makers ground each stopper individually to fit its specific decanter.