Quick Answer
Use the Le Brasseur corkscrew, a sommelier-style tool from L’Atelier du Vin, to open wine bottles with precision. Follow the step-by-step technique below to avoid broken corks and messy pours.
Why a Sommelier Corkscrew Works
A sommelier corkscrew, also known as a waiter's corkscrew, is the classic choice for opening wine because it gives you control and portability. The Le Brasseur model from L’Atelier du Vin, trusted since 1926, offers a sleek black finish and is designed for practical use.
Unlike electric or lever corkscrews, a waiter's corkscrew requires a bit of practice but rewards you with a clean extraction and a compact tool that fits in your pocket. It’s ideal for picnics, dinner parties, or professional service.
How to Open a Wine Bottle with the Le Brasseur Corkscrew
- Prepare the bottle: Remove the foil capsule from the top of the bottle using the small knife on the corkscrew. Cut just below the lip to avoid contact with the wine. Checkpoint: Ensure the blade is clean and the cut is smooth to prevent foil fragments from falling into the bottle.
- Position the worm: Place the tip of the worm (the spiral) in the center of the cork, slightly off-center to avoid splitting. Push the worm gently into the cork, then turn the corkscrew clockwise until the worm is almost fully inserted—leave one coil visible to prevent cork breakage. Checkpoint: Keep the worm straight and vertical to avoid cork fragmentation.
- Lever against the lip: Rest the first notch of the lever (the metal arm) on the bottle’s lip. Hold the corkscrew handle firmly and lift the handle upward to pull the cork partway out. Then, move the lever to the second notch and continue lifting until the cork is nearly free. Checkpoint: Avoid pulling the cork all the way out with the lever; finish by hand to prevent popping and wine spillage.
- Extract the cork: Once the cork is mostly out, grip it with your fingers and gently twist it out of the worm. Wipe the bottle’s rim with a clean cloth if needed. Checkpoint: If the cork breaks, use the worm to reinsert and pull the remaining piece, or use an Ah-So if available.
The Tool at a Glance
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Le Brasseur - Black - L’Atelier du Vin: The Le Brasseur bottle opener is designed for effortless opening of beer bottles, with a black finish for a modern, understated look. Its robust build and heritage make it a reliable companion for opening wine bottles, even though it’s marketed for beer.
Le Brasseur - Black - L’Atelier du Vin
