Riedel O Decanter

Thumbs Up ! Riedel's "O Decanter is a delightful confluence of function and fun. Designed by 11th generation Maximilian Riedel of the world renowned Austrian glassmaking dynasty, the "O decanter features a very deep punt that accommodates the entire thumb, while the other four fingers securely cradle the outside of the decanter. This creates amazing stability and control when pouring and the elliptical mouth allows a perfectly drip free pour. The "O Decanter is hand blown, fine crystal and holds a standard 750 ml bottle of wine.

The fluid shape of the O decanter coordinates beautifully with the popular O tumblers from Riedel. Decanting--pouring the contents of a bottle of wine into a serving container--enhances the appreciation of the wine by increasing its contact with oxygen, basically the same process as swirling wine in a glass to release its bouquet. Decanting allows older as well as young wines to fully open up and "breathe." The deep upward facing well, known as a punt, in the bottom of the O decanter causes the wine to splay when poured in, increasing oxygenation. And, the punt provides a good thumb-hold, making the container easier to grasp, which is why the decanter is nicknamed by designer Maximilian Riedel as the "Thumbs Up."

Riedel's O tumblers neatly sidestep the annoying issue of stem breakage and fit handily into a dishwasher or picnic basket. Unlike the tumblers, which are machine made of lead-free glass, the decanter is hand-blown of leaded crystal. Making a delightful gift for the uninhibited wine drinker, the O decanter pours without dripping, thanks to its gracefully angled lip, and, like the tumblers, feels just plain satisfying to hold in the hand. The decanter stands 8-7/8 inches tall and holds 34-1/2 ounces. To keep it sparkling, wash by hand. --Ann Bieri