1. Corkscrew with a helix. This is the oldest and simplest tool for removing the cork and it relies upon human power.

2. Twin prong cork puller. This tool is just as old, but it is less popular. Its advantage is that it does not penetrate the cork so it cannot damage it. It requires a little attention and skill.

3. Corkscrew with a helix and a second-class lever. This type of corkscrew is known as the “waiter’s friend”. Therefore, it is the most commonly used one. It is available in two versions: with and without a swinging arm. I think this corkscrew is neither the most comfortable nor the best functioning one, but the fact that it can be kept in the pocket and it is used by professionals, makes it so popular.

4. Corkscrew with helix and a third class lever, known as “ballerina”. This tool is easy to use, but because of the extremely thick auger entering the cork, it is not one of the best tools. This corkscrew has the best chance to shred or break the cork without removing it.

5. Corkscrew with a helix and gears. These variations are the fastest and easiest tools to use. The trouble with them is that original designs are expensive and cheap copies do not work. That’s why people look at them with suspicion.

6. Jacked–up corkscrew. These are not very common and they are much more collector’s items rather than working tools.

7. Corkscrew with infinite worm. These are the best cork- screws for me. Easy to use, secure and last but not least, they do not require any physical effort.

8. Corkscrews with a needle. These tools are based on the principle of introducing air between the cork and the wine, creating pressure and removing the cork just like with sparkling wines. They are easy on the cork and cannot damage
it, but they are extremely difficult to use. There is another problem: if the cork is too tight or too loose, it is impossible to remove it with this tool. This instrument comes in two variations. One is based on manual pumping of air and the other on the use of compressed air.

9. Automatic cork opener. These are very modern electric tools that simply suck the cork out of the bottle.

In the process of development of this tool over the centuries there have been other modifications, but I have described only those that you can find in specialised shops today. People have their own preferences and they use the tool that is most convenient for them, but there is something that goes beyond argument. Regardless of their design, these tools are divided by their quality – high or poor. How do we tell if
 a corkscrew is of high quality? What should we look for? The most important principle is that the less metal enters the cork, the better the tool is. Look for those with a more open worm, with a higher pitch and teflon coating (that facilitates the penetration into the cork). Below I have demonstrated several type of spirals from poor to excellent.

Now that you have acquainted yourself with this much needed tool, all you have to do is pick a good bottle of wine and with joy and delight share it with your loved ones. Cheers!

Yassen Panov, hedonist