An antique French corkscrew. Circa 1900. By Jacques Perille.

A corkscrew is a handy kitchen tool designed to remove corks from bottles, most commonly used for wine bottles. Whether for a casual evening at home or a formal gathering, the corkscrew plays a vital role in making the process of opening a bottle of wine or other beverages quick and efficient. With its simple yet effective design, it ensures that you can easily access the contents of a sealed bottle without any mess or frustration.

One of the most common types of corkscrews is the traditional waiter’s corkscrew, also known as a sommelier knife. This style is compact and versatile, often favored by professionals in the wine industry. The waiter’s corkscrew typically features a sharp, spiral metal screw (also called the “worm”), which is used to drill into the cork. It also has a lever that helps provide extra torque for easy cork removal, and many models include a small knife to cut the foil around the bottle neck. This corkscrew is known for its portability and practicality, making it a popular choice for both casual wine drinkers and sommeliers.

Another popular style is the winged corkscrew, which is a more user-friendly option for those who may not have as much experience opening bottles. The winged corkscrew features two “wings” that rise as the screw is driven into the cork. Once the screw is fully inserted, the user can press down on the wings, which lever the cork out of the bottle effortlessly. Winged corkscrews are easy to use and provide more leverage, making them ideal for people who want a simple, fuss-free way of opening bottles.

For those who prefer a more modern, automatic approach, there are electric corkscrews. These battery-operated devices are designed to make the process of uncorking a bottle effortless. With the push of a button, an electric corkscrew automatically twists into the cork and removes it from the bottle. Electric corkscrews are perfect for people who frequently open wine bottles and want a faster, more convenient way to do so. Many electric models come with built-in foil cutters and charging bases, making them both practical and easy to use.