8 fail-proof ways to open a wine bottle without a corkscrew!

Just imagine:  you're staring at an inviting bottle of wine, your heart set on sharing it with friends or your beloved one after a long day of work, only to realize there's no corkscrew in sight.

Before losing heart it is good to know that you aren’t completely lost. Opening a bottle of wine without a corkscrew might seem daunting on one hand, but fear not, for we're here to guide you through some inventive and fun methods that will definitely help you avoid that situation.

Grab a key, ideally one with a sturdy body and a loop or ring at the end (Photo: Susan Holt Simpson, unsplash.com)

1. The Key Trick

Got a key? Perfect! This is one of the simplest methods to open your bottle without a corkscrew. Grab a key, ideally one with a sturdy body and a loop or ring at the end. Insert the key's pointed end gently into the cork at a slight angle, and then twist and turn the key while pulling upward. The cork should start to come out. Keep twisting and pulling until you can easily remove the cork. Voilà! Your wine is liberated.

2. The Shoe Method

Ladies, attention! We gonna need one of your shoes out of your repertoire. No heels, however! Go, find a shoe with a sturdy sole and remove any debris. Place the wine bottle inside the shoe, ensuring it's snug. Now, find a solid wall or surface, hold the bottle firmly, and give it a series of strong, controlled thumps against the wall. The force, combined with the cushioning of the shoe, should gradually push the cork out. Just be cautious and ensure your bottle doesn't go flying!

The force, combined with the cushioning of the shoe, should gradually push the cork out (Photo: Julian Hochgesang, unsplash.com)

3. The Screw and Pliers Technique

Time to channel your inner MacGyver. Locate a screw, preferably long, and twist it into the cork as far as it will go using your hands or a pair of pliers. Once the screw is securely anchored in the cork, use the pliers to grip the screw firmly. Now, gently but firmly, start pulling the cork upward and out. This method requires a bit of patience and precision, but it's remarkably effective.

If there is no other try the wooden spoon solution (Photo: Louis Hansel, unsplash.com)

4. The Wooden Spoon Solution

Just be creative, there are so many options you might not see at first glance. With a wooden spoon or any long, sturdy object, you can give the wine bottle a go. Simply place the bottle on a table. Then hold the spoon firmly and tap the base of the cork repeatedly, applying consistent pressure. The cork should gradually rise as you tap. Once it's out far enough, you can remove it by hand. Just be sure to keep the bottle steady to avoid spills.

5. The Plunge and Pull Technique

Time to dive into this one literally unique method. If you have access to a plunger (preferably a new and clean one), this can work wonders. Put the plunger over the cork, while making sure it forms a proper seal. Then you can apply a steady downward pressure on the plunger, to afterwards gently lift it back up. Ét voilà! The cork should ascend with the plunger, giving you the satisfaction of uncorking your bottle while sneaking in a mini workout. Cheers to creativity!

6. The Paracord Power Move

Do you have a paracord or a strong, flexible rope lying around? This method is a great choice if you enjoy a bit of DIY. First, find a piece of paracord about three feet long. Fold it in half to create a loop. Slide the loop under the cork until it's snug. Now, grab the ends of the paracord, one in each hand, and start sawing back and forth while pulling up. The cork should pop out with a little effort.

7. The Impromptu Screwdriver Method

All guys with a repair shop in their basement, your attention, please! Plenty of material is at your disposal down there.  Go and get one of your screwdrivers, ideally the one with a flathead. You can twist the screw into the cork, leaving a bit of the screw exposed. Then, use the screwdriver to grip the exposed part of the screw. With steady hands and a firm grip, start pulling the cork out. This method is straightforward and highly effective. You’ll see. 

When he realizes he rescued the situation and is able to open the bottle of wine without a corkscrew (Photo: Anna Fothergill, unsplash.com)

8. The Pocket Knife Technique

Got a pocket knife? It's more than just a tool for cutting and slicing. Open the blade partially and insert it gently into the cork at a slight angle. Once it's securely embedded, twist and turn the knife while pulling upward. The cork should start to come out. Continue twisting and pulling until you've fully removed the cork!

So by now, you are a wine bottle-opening expert and nothing in the world will keep you from not opening your bottle. It's time to savor your victory. Pour yourself a glass, raise it high, and toast to your resourcefulness. But still, there is a tiny point you should never forget: Knowing how inventive and fun these methods are, they may not be suitable though for all types of corks or bottles. So always use them with care and, most importantly, enjoy your well-deserved glass of wine.

Cheers from the VinoVoss team!

Lotte Gabrovits