Which wine openers are best?

Anyone who enjoys a glass of wine every now and then has likely dealt with the frustration of being without a proper wine opener. A wine opener is an essential kitchen staple for those who enjoy a glass with dinner as well as those hosting guests or throwing parties. The best wine openers cleanly remove the cork without much effort, allowing you to enjoy your drink without worrying about swallowing bits of cork.

Wine openers vary in style, and models are available for both the casual wine enthusiast and knowledgeable sommelier. The HiCoup Rosewood Premium Waiter’s Corkscrew is a reliable option that looks as great as it performs.

What to know before you buy a wine opener

Manual vs. automatic

Decide whether you want a classic hand-operated opener or a newer automatic model. The majority of wine openers are manual, but an automatic model may be perfect if you want an easier opening solution.

While the convenience of an automatic opener is hard to beat, there are a few downsides. Automatic openers require an electrical outlet or rechargeable battery. In general, they are larger and less aesthetically appealing than many manual options.

Types of wine openers

As far as manual wine openers go, there are four styles to consider.

Twist and pull corkscrew: This common style of wine opener is simple and often inexpensive but requires more effort and strength than other options. To use a twist and pull corkscrew, rotate and insert the screw into the cork before pulling up on the handle to remove the cork from the bottle.
Waiter’s corkscrew: Another classic type of wine opener, restaurant employees use a waiter’s corkscrew. This style operates similarly to the twist-and-pull model but includes a double-notched lever, making for easier cork removal.
Winged corkscrew: With a design and removal method different from the previous two styles, winged corkscrews require less effort. You use a twistable top handle to insert the screw, then press on the two side levers, or “wings,” to remove the cork easily.
Lever-style corkscrew: Also referred to as a rabbit corkscrew, this style has a unique appearance and often a significantly higher price tag. It utilizes sturdy handles to keep the bottle steady and an easy-to-operate top handle to remove the cork in seconds.

What to look for in a quality wine opener

Size

Size plays a role when selecting the best wine opener, especially if your kitchen has limited storage or cabinet space. Twist-and-pull corkscrews and waiter’s corkscrews take up the least space and are the most portable options. The other styles are slightly larger yet still manageable for most kitchens.

Durability

Cheaply made corkscrews are likely to last only a handful of times before breaking. Choosing a model made from high-quality durable materials ensures you can open any bottle without a problem. As for the screw itself, known as “the worm,” stainless steel is a reliable material choice because it is strong and unlikely to bend. The worm should be at least 1 ¾ inches long for optimal performance. A durable wine opener can reduce the chance of the cork fracturing or breaking apart.

Easy to use

Each style has varying degrees of difficulty regarding ease of use. If you don’t want to or aren’t able to put the needed strength into using a twist and pull or waiter’s corkscrew, opt for a winged, lever-style or automatic opener.

Cork material

A wine bottle has a natural or synthetic cork. Different openers work better with different cork materials. Waiter’s corkscrews are an ideal multipurpose option, while winged corkscrews work well with synthetic corks and lever-style openers are best suited for natural corks.

How much you can expect to spend on a wine opener

Wine openers range from $5 for the most basic twist and pull option to $50 for a quality lever-style opener. Expect to pay between $10-$25 for midrange winged and waiter’s corkscrews.

Wine opener FAQ

How long does wine last once I open the bottle?

A. Red, white and rosé wines have different shelf lives once the cork is removed. Most reds last between two and five days before the flavor degrades. Whites and rosés often last a week when properly stored in the fridge.

What type of wine opener should I use for older bottles?

A. If you need to open aged bottles with delicate corks, opt for a waiter’s corkscrew. They are less likely to cause damage. This style of opener is also good for ports and dessert wines.

What’s the best wine opener to buy?

Top wine opener

HiCoup Rosewood Premium Waiter’s Corkscrew

What you need to know: This rosewood corkscrew is an efficient wine accessory that won’t break the bank.

What you’ll love: Its compact and portable size makes it easy to transport, while its classy appearance complements any kitchen. It also makes a thoughtful gift idea for wine connoisseurs.

What you should consider: Some people had an issue with the foil cutter.

Top wine opener for the money

Foho Luxury Wing Corkscrew Wine Opener

What you need to know: The Fogo Luxury winged wine opener is durable and easy to use.

What you’ll love: While it may have a simple design, it has a sturdy feel and unbeatable price. This model comes with a bottle stopper to preserve leftover wine.

What you should consider: There have been a few reports of defective products.

Worth checking out

Brookstone Compact Lever-Pull Wine Opener

What you need to know: This is designed for those searching for a smooth and extremely efficient wine opener.

What you’ll love: This opener’s durable construction and stable design allow it to open hundreds of bottles without reducing performance. It can remove both natural and synthetic corks.

What you should consider: This opener is only designed for standard-sized wine bottles.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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