How to Open a Bottle of Wine Without a Corkscrew

Imagine this: You’ve planned the perfect evening. The ambiance is set, the cheese platter is ready, and you reach for that bottle of wine only to realize… you don’t have a corkscrew! Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here are some creative and fun ways to open a bottle of wine without a corkscrew. 

1. The Shoe Method

This method is as quirky as it sounds and surprisingly effective!

• What You Need: A shoe with a sturdy sole (like a sneaker).
• How to Do It: Place the bottle in the shoe, base first. Hold the shoe and bottle together and gently hit the sole against a wall. The pressure will gradually push the cork out. Once it’s out enough, you can pull it out with your hand.

2. Push It In

When in doubt, push the cork in!

• What You Need: A blunt object like the handle of a wooden spoon or a marker. (We previously used toothbrush and 10cm heigh stilettos..)
• How to Do It: Place the bottle on a stable surface. Use the blunt object to push the cork down into the bottle. Be careful of any wine splashing out. This method might leave some cork pieces in the wine, but you can strain them out with a coffee filter.

3. Screw and Hammer

This method is a bit more hands-on but very effective.

• What You Need: A long screw, a screwdriver, and a hammer.
• How to Do It: Screw the screw into the cork, leaving about an inch sticking out. Use the back of the hammer to pull the screw (and the cork) out. It’s like a DIY corkscrew

4. The Key Trick

A house key can be your savior in this situation.

• What You Need: A sturdy house key.
• How to Do It: Insert the key into the cork at a 45-degree angle. Twist the bottle while pulling up on the key. The cork should start to come out with a bit of effort.

5. The Hanger Hook

This one’s a bit unconventional but works in a pinch.

• What You Need: A wire hanger.
• How to Do It: Bend the hanger into a hook shape. Slide it down alongside the cork, twist it so the hook grabs the cork, and pull it out.

6. The Bike Pump

For those who like a bit of adventure.

• What You Need: A bike pump with a needle.
• How to Do It: Insert the needle through the cork and pump air into the bottle. The pressure will push the cork out. Just be careful not to overdo it.

Safety Tips

• Always point the bottle away from yourself and others.
• Be gentle to avoid breaking the bottle.
• If the cork crumbles, strain the wine before serving.

Opening a bottle of wine without a corkscrew can be a fun and inventive experience. Whether you’re using a shoe, a screw, or even a bike pump, these methods will ensure you never miss out on enjoying your wine. Cheers to creativity and resourcefulness! 

Which method are you excited to try first?