How to Open a Wine Bottle: the 3 Methods and Tips to Do it Like a Pro

Opening a bottle of wine can often feel like an art form, reserved for sommeliers or those with years of experience. For many, the task can turn into an anxiety-inducing ordeal, filled with fears of doing it wrong, popping the cap unexpectedly, or the dreaded scenario of cork fragments floating in your wine. But fear not, because mastering the bottle opening is not as daunting as it seems. With a few tricks up your sleeve, you can open wine bottles with ease, whether you have a corkscrew on hand or find yourself improvising with tools around the house. Here's how to navigate this rite of passage and impress your guests with your newfound skill.

Opening a Bottle with a Corkscrew

Start by removing any foil or covering from the top of the bottle using the small knife found on most corkscrews. Position the tip of the corkscrew at the center of the cork. Begin twisting clockwise, applying gentle pressure until the screw is firmly in the cork, leaving one or two spirals visible. Many corkscrews come with a lever. Once the screw is in place, rest the lever's notch on the lip of the wine bottle. Gently pull the handle up, using the bottle's lip as a pivot, until the cork begins to emerge. Continue pulling until the cork is free.

Opening a Bottle Without a Corkscrew

Find a screw (longer is better), screw it into the cork with a screwdriver until most of the screw is in the cork, leaving enough to grip. Then, with a pair of pliers or a hammer's claw, pull the screw and cork out together. If you're in a pinch, you can also push the cork into the bottle. It's not the most elegant solution, but it works. Use a blunt object like the end of a wooden spoon. Be aware this method may cause the wine to splash, so proceed with caution.

Opening a Bottle with a Wine Key

Start by using the small knife on the wine key to cut the foil around the top of the bottle. A clean cut beneath the lip allows for a smoother pour. Similar to the corkscrew method, insert the spiral into the cork's center. Twist it down into the cork, stopping before the spiral is fully inserted. Wine keys have a two-step lever action for easier cork removal. First, use the lever's first step to partially pull the cork out, then switch to the second step to fully remove the cork.

Tips for Opening a Wine Bottle Like a Pro

The more you practice, the easier it becomes. Start with less expensive bottles to reduce pressure. Use a firm grip to hold the bottle steady while you twist the corkscrew or wine key. A sturdy corkscrew or wine key can make a significant difference. Look for ones with a comfortable grip and durable design. When using any method, be gentle to prevent breaking the cork. If the cork does break, you can still salvage the situation by pushing the remaining piece into the bottle or using a strainer to catch any fragments.