Are you like me, a corkscrew wine openers novice? Are you confused about all the different styles and why are they necessary? Does it really matter? Let’s find out together… What’s the big deal: you have to remove a cork, so what can I do wrong? Well, as it turns out, plenty.
9 Types of Corkscrews & Wine Bottle Openers
Nine types? They are all going to open a wine bottle so why so many? It turns out each corkscrew has it’s own advantage. On a general basis, you screw the “worm” into the cork and pull up the cork slowly. From there, let’s investigate the differences and what advantage each one offers.
We’ll review each style below. We hope to find the one that’s best for you. I have listed then with the most commonly used styles first. But first, let’s define…
The Anatomy of a Corkscrew
Despite their differences in styles, corkscrews generally at least have a corkscrew worm, handle, and bootlever to remove corks. Additionally, features such as foil cutters and bottle cap removers are also common components found on some styles,
- Worm: a single metal helix that drives into a wine cork to remove it. The helix grabs the cork as it is twisted in so that the cork can be fully removed from the wine bottle.
- Handle: provides the leverage and grip necessary to remove corks. Of course, handle styles, lengths, and materials vary greatly.
- Bootlever: provides additional leverage to pull wine corks out. Bootlevers are primarily found on waiter’s corkscrews.
- Foil cutter: generally small, serrated blades or wheels that slice open the protective foil covering at the top of the wine bottle.
- Bottle cap remover: for popping the tops off beer or soda bottles. Bottle cap removers are available on many styles of corkscrews.
Now, defining the different Corkscrew Wine Openers
1. Waiter’s Corkscrew Wine Openers
Waiter’s corkscrews are also known as wine keys. The standard tool for most restaurants and bars. The perfect blend of affordability, compact size, and functionality. They are also considered to be the oldest way to open a bottle of wine.
2. Pocket Corkscrews
This corkscrew is compact. It is perfect to slip into your pants or apron pocket. They usually have a sheath that will keep the worm from poking through the fabric. This sheath also can create a “T” shaped crossbar to give you leverage to twist the worm into the cork and remove it.
3. Wing Corkscrews
Wing, or winged, corkscrews are a popular choice especially for synthetic cork removal. They are easy to use. In addition, they work on corks of all sizes for further versatility. Wing corkscrews are not the best choice for opening vintage wines or wines with natural, brittle corks. They can leave cork crumbs behind.
4. Electric Corkscrews
Need I say it: these are the easiest way to open a bottle of wine. Simply push a button. Anyone can quickly open a bottle. Really great for anyone who has arthritis or little hand strength.
5. Counter Mount Corkscrews
Attached to a table or counter for sturdiness and support these corkscrews provide additional torque. They open bottles faster and with less effort than many other types. of corkscrews. You attach them easily to bars for a convenient way to open bottles of wine.
6. Lever Corkscrews
Easy to use. Most lever corkscrew wine openers use two motions. You insert the worm into the cork and gently pull the cork from the bottle. The real benefit is the amount of control they provide. The handle firmly holds the neck of the bottle while the corkscrew is in use.
7. Wine Cork Extractors
Extractors feature prongs that slide down between the wine bottle and cork to remove the cork. They’re ideal to open bottles with vintage corks made from natural cork. That’s because, best of all, extractors won’t damage vintage wine corks. They don’t usually break the cork dropping crumbs into the wine. Until I introduced my husband to our electric opener, this was his favorite style.
8. Wall Mount Corkscrews
Obviously, you mount this to a beam or wall for optimal flexibility and security. They work well in banquet rooms. You select the penetration depth to partially open the bottle. Next, they set the bottle on the table and open after the guests arrive. Probably not too practical for home use.
9. Continuous Pull Corkscrew Wine Openers
These corkscrews work using a twist motion to drive the worm into the cork. Additionally, the sides of the continuous pull corkscrew sit on the sit on the neck of the bottle. Many styles have hinges on the handles. This allows you to squeeze them around the bottles neck to get a better grip.
Well, there you have it. Obviously, your particular circumstances and needs enter into the decision you make about which style would work best for you.
You see more accessories to add to your wine experience when you go here to find the right accessory. Great for you and great for gifts.
Well, I hope you enjoyed this trip through Corkscrew Wine Openers and learned a little something. Thank you for visiting and I hope you return soon.
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