CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThroughout the 18th and 19th centuries, decanters were among the most important serving vessels on the dining room table. They were used to serve a variety of alcoholic beverages, from beer to cordials, but most importantly wine. The act of decanting or pouring the wine from the spout of the bottle to the neck of the decanter, separated the wine from its sediments, resulting in a clearer and more appetizing beverage.