Live Oak Whiskey Decanter – Frequently Asked Questions
1. My decanter is leaking – is that normal?
This decanter is crafted from natural live oak wood, just like a real whiskey barrel. It may leak slightly when first filled—this is perfectly normal. As the wooden staves swell, the seal should tighten and the leak will stop.
If leaking continues after a day or two, please contact us directly.
2. When should I fill my decanter?
We recommend filling it as soon as it arrives. This helps the wood begin to swell and seal properly, and kick-starts the aging process.
3. Where should I store it?
Store your decanter in a cooler, shaded place. This helps reduce the Angel’s Share—the natural evaporation of whiskey through the wood.
4. What is the Angel’s Share?
The Angel’s Share is the small amount of liquid that evaporates over time, just like in a full-sized whiskey cask. It’s a natural part of the aging process and contributes to the character of the spirit.
5. How long should I age the whiskey?
You’ll start to see a change in color and flavor within a few weeks. Over time, your spirit will darken and take on more oak complexity. Feel free to sample periodically and enjoy the journey!
6. What should I do after I’ve finished the whiskey?
You’ve got a few great options:
- Refill it with any spirit to give it a touch of oak aging.
- Use it as an infinity bottle—a blend of your favorite whiskies that evolves over time.
Read more in our blog post: Whiskey Infinity Bottle.
The Whiskey Infinity Bottle: A Personalised Blend of Time and Taste
If you’re a whiskey enthusiast, you’ve likely heard of the concept of an Infinity Bottle—a unique and evolving blend of whiskeys curated by the person who owns it. More than just a fun experiment, an Infinity Bottle is a personal expression of taste, history, and craftsmanship.
What Is an Infinity Bottle?
An Infinity Bottle (sometimes called a “living blend”) is a continuously evolving bottle of whiskey created by adding small amounts of different whiskeys over time. Instead of finishing off the last few ounces of a bottle, you pour them into your designated Infinity Bottle, gradually developing a blend that carries forward the flavours of past contributions. The result is a whiskey experience that is unique, personal, and never the same twice.
How to Start Your Own Infinity Bottle
1. Choose the Right Bottle
While any glass bottle will work, many whiskey lovers opt for a high-quality decanter with an airtight seal. The ultimate version would use Blacks limited edition live oak stave decanter. This bottle has an internal layer of live charred oak staves so the whiskey will mature and change in the bottle over time, adding another level to your infinity bottle experience.
2. Decide on a Theme
Before you start pouring, think about what type of blend you want to create. Some popular themes include:
- All Irish – Use only Irish Whiskey & Poitin’s for a fully Irish experience
- All Rye – A spicy, bold mix of rye whiskeys.
- World Whiskey Mix – A global fusion of American, Irish, Japanese, and other whiskeys.
- No Rules – A freeform approach where you mix any whiskey you enjoy.
3. Keep Track of Additions
One of the most overlooked aspects of an Infinity Bottle is documentation. Keep a log of what you add, including the brand, proof, and amount. This helps you track how your whiskey evolves and which additions have the most significant impact.
4. Taste and Adjust
Since an Infinity Bottle is always changing, periodically taste it to see how the flavours are developing. If the whiskey starts to lean too heavily in one direction (too sweet, too smoky, too spicy), balance it with a complementary addition.
5. Share the Experience
An Infinity Bottle is a great conversation starter, whether you’re entertaining guests or discussing whiskey with fellow enthusiasts. Offering someone a pour from your one-of-a-kind blend makes for a unique and memorable tasting experience.
Best Practices for a Balanced Blend
- Start with a solid foundation – A quality whiskey or Poitin with a balanced profile makes a great base.
- Avoid overloading with extremes – Too much heavily peated Scotch or high-proof bourbon can dominate the mix.
- Let it rest – After adding a new whiskey, let your blend sit for a week or two before tasting to allow flavours to meld.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment – The best part of an Infinity Bottle is the adventure of creating something truly your own.
Final Thoughts
A Whiskey Infinity Bottle is more than just a fun project—it’s a living history of your whiskey-drinking journey. With careful curation and a sense of experimentation, you can craft a one-of-a-kind blend that evolves over time and tells the story of your tastes and discoveries. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, an Infinity Bottle is a rewarding and personal way to enjoy whiskey.
