The Best Wine Openers: When to Invest, What Works Best

There are pros and cons to every type of wine opener, and it can be a hassle to blindly throw money at different models without knowing what really works. Here are some of our top picks. After reading this, it just comes down to your preference and budget.

Waiter’s Corkscrew

This timeless, handheld wine opener gets its name from being a standard tool in most restaurants. With its fold up design it proves to be especially portable and simple to use, although some models require a little technique and finesse. The corkscrew, or worm, twists into the cork and the cork is pulled free with the lever.

The Waiter’s Corkscrew usually comes with a small knife for cutting into the foil that covers the cork. Make sure to invest in a quality one such as the one sold on the Whitehall Lane website that features brushed stainless steel to ensure years of use.

Screwpull “Rabbit” Style Corkscrew

The Screwpull is great for beginners since it is easy and fast to use, although it might not be as appealing to more seasoned winos. It is not as portable as the Waiter’s corkscrew, and takes up more space in storage due to its large size. To operate the “Rabbit,” simply place the Screwpull over the top of the bottle, lower the lever and then raise it in one swift movement. The cork gives a satisfying “pop” and you’re wine’s ready to pour.

If you try to budget with this corkscrew, they tend to break fairly easily. Pier 1 Imports has a reliable and reasonably priced model without overlooking quality.

Electric Wine Opener

Say goodbye to the hassle of opening wine bottles. Electric Wine Openers practically do the work for you, which is why it is an especially great pick for wine lovers with arthritis. It is particularly useful when there are several bottles to open in one night.

Sparing no effort, you merely push a button and the device pulls and releases the cork. Some even come with a foil cutter. It is a fan favorite and can be found at very reasonable prices. Wine Enthusiast’s Electric Blue Opener works smoothly and serves as a great party trick to whip out when one is entertaining guests.

Winged (Butterfly) Corkscrew

The winged corkscrew is a common choice and easy to use. Once the corkscrew is placed on the bottle, turn the top knob and watch the two “wings” on either side rise. Then just push down on both wings in order to release the cork. The stopper is used to prevent the screw from breaking the cork.

All great quality, choose your favorite design from the Beverage Factory’s current selection.

Sources

• http://winefolly.com/tutorial/whats-the-best-wine-opener/
• http://www.wisebread.com/the-5-best-wine-openers
• http://www.wineenthusiast.com/learn/wine-openers/
• http://www.wineenthusiast.com/learn/wine-openers/different-types-of-wine-openers.asp
• http://www.wine-tastings-guide.com/wine-opener.html
• http://www.consumersearch.com/wine-openers/best-wine-openers
• http://thesweethome.com/reviews/the-best-corkscrew/
• http://www.oxo.com/p-851-steel-winged-corkscrew.aspx