There are at least four reasons to decant red wine: to remove sediment before your guests put their lips to a fine old vintage, to let a good wine breathe (aerate) before drinking, to spare your guests the sight of an inferior label, and for the sheer aesthetic loveliness of the thing — few objects so improve a table as the rich glow of a fine Bordeaux or Cotes du Rhone in a graceful glass decanter. Any special dinner party is occasion enough. Start by storing all wine horizontally, label side up, in a cool, dark place. Uncork the bottle up to 20 minutes before serving, gently wipe the mouth of the bottle with a clean cloth, then slowly pour the wine into the decanter. Icke carafe, $49 from Nicole Farhi, 212-223-8811.