Fcafotodigital/Getty Images By Amberly Mckee/Dec. 18, 2023 11:15 am EST If you're a wine connoisseur, you know the difference between pouring from a decanter and a bottle. Wine stored in a decanter comes in contact with air, which, for better or worse, changes its flavor. Because wine is acidic, failing to clean your decanter immediately can cause stains. It can also cause flavors to mix, making for an off-putting experience. There are many viable ways to clean a decanter.