Is it better to push or pull a wine cork from a bottle? That is a question that has been asked by almost nobody ever, quite simply because the physics of a sealed bottle of wine almost defies that possibility. We say ‘almost’ as there is actually one way around that dilemma.
Cork Pops gradually pushes pressure into a sealed bottle of wine, allowing it to be pushed out, much like a cork in a gas-charged bottle of champagne. This leaves all the work to the tool, minimizing the possibility of damaging the cork and leaving bits of material in the wine, and it makes a satisfying ‘pop’ at the finish (don’t worry, the short burst will have no effect on the taste of your wine).
What makes a gadget unique is when it solves an old problem in a new way, and in the case of Cork Pops, it solves a couple of small annoyances. One, it cleanly removes a cork without damage due to its needle-like piercer. Two, the introduction of pressure reduces the need to do much (of anything) while technically ‘pushing’ any cork (both traditional and synthetic) from the inside out.
How to:
The way it works is you press the needle through the center of the cork. This creates a tight, clean hole. Next, gently press the top of the gas cartridge, which slowly begins to discharge gas through a small hole at the tip of the needle.
At this point, you need to make a split decision on what to do based on what happens next. In most cases, the cork will begin to rise and you can gently apply pressure toward the cork to ensure it releases gently. Occasionally, a stubborn cork will require a bit more pressure by pressing on the cartridge with more force to release more gas, while pulling and rocking back and forth gently to help free it. Practice will make perfect (i.e. it may take two or three bottles to really find your groove).
What we like about Cork Pops is it’s inexpensive (under $30), easy to use, leaves a clean hole, works quickly, and has a relatively compact profile (compared to other upscale wine openers that do most of the work for you). And we can’t forget that satisfying champagne ‘pop’ and chill fog at the finale. What’s the catch? For this gadget, the gas cartridge will need to be replaced after 60 to 80 bottles of wine (a 2-pack of refills will cost $14.00).
Another thing to keep in mind is this tool is not recommended for bottles over 750ml or in a novelty shape (square, skull head, etc.). This is simply because the extra pressure could potentially shatter these non-traditional bottles. But if you stay within these guidelines, nobody gets hurt and everybody gets wine – it’s a win-win.
If you’re a bit non-traditional, the Corkpops is a worthy (and practical) gadget with a unique and conversation-starting twist to standard wine opening. You can find them on Amazon or CorkPop’s own website.
Urbasm occasionally receives vendor/brand sponsorship’s for mentioning their products and services. And while these products may be free, our opinions are honest… and free (at least until somebody starts paying us for them)
About Dr. Eric J. Leech
Eric has written for over a decade. Then one day he created Urbasm.com, a site for every guy.
About Dr. Eric J. Leech