Wine accessories are not about making things complicated. They are simple tools that help you open, serve, and preserve wine in the best possible way. The right corkscrew protects the cork, a decanter helps a wine open up, a thermometer ensures the correct serving temperature, and a good preservation system keeps an opened bottle fresh for longer. This guide focuses on the accessories that truly matter and explains how each one improves the experience from the moment the bottle is opened to the final glass.
1) Tools for opening wine
A clean and controlled opening is the first step in good wine service. The right tool protects the cork, prevents debris from falling into the wine, and makes the process smooth and pleasant. These are the most useful openers to know.
Double-hinged corkscrew (sommelier knife)
The double-hinged corkscrew is the most reliable and versatile opener. Its two-step lever system provides excellent control and allows you to remove the cork gradually, reducing the risk of breaking it. With a sharp knife for cutting the foil and a well-shaped worm that enters the cork smoothly, this tool is used by professionals worldwide.
Key points
When to use
- Everyday wines
- Premium bottles
- Older wines with firm corks
Advantages
- Clean, controlled extraction
- Excellent leverage
- Compact and durable
Pro Tip: Insert the worm straight into the center of the cork. A straight entry ensures a clean extraction and avoids unnecessary tearing.
Pro Tip: Use the first hinge to lift the cork halfway, then switch to the second hinge for a smooth finish.
Pro Tip: Wipe the worm occasionally to prevent dried wine from affecting its grip.
Ah-So cork extractor
The Ah-So is ideal for older bottles with delicate or crumbly corks. Instead of piercing the cork, its two thin prongs slide between the cork and the bottle neck, allowing you to remove it gently. It takes a little practice, but once mastered, it becomes essential for mature wines.
Key points
Best for
- Mature wines
- Corks that are fragile or starting to crumble
- Bottles older than ten years
Advantages
- Removes corks without piercing them
- Prevents cork fragments from falling into the wine
Pro Tip: Insert the longer prong first, then the shorter one, rocking gently until both slide fully into place.
Pro Tip: If the cork begins to spin, pause and push the prongs deeper to improve grip.
Did you know? The name “Ah-So” comes from the German expression “Ach so!”, meaning “Ah, I see!”. Sommeliers used to say it while demonstrating the unusual technique of sliding the two prongs beside the cork instead of piercing it.
Wing corkscrew
The wing corkscrew is common in home kitchens because it is easy to use. As you twist the top handle, the wings rise, and pressing them down extracts the cork. It is convenient for young wines but not ideal for older bottles with fragile corks.
Key points
Ideal for
- Beginners
- Young wines
- Synthetic corks
Limitations
- Can damage older corks
- Less precise control
Pro Tip: Avoid twisting too far down. If the worm pierces through the bottom of the cork, pieces may fall into the wine.
Electric corkscrews
Electric corkscrews offer effortless opening and are useful for people with limited grip strength or for events where many bottles are opened quickly. However, they lack precision and should not be used on fragile corks.
Key points
Best for
- Convenience and ease of use
- Large gatherings
- People with limited hand strength
Limitations
- Not recommended for old or fragile corks
- Requires proper alignment
Pro Tip: Make sure the opener is straight and centered before activating it to avoid pushing the cork into the bottle.
Foil cutters
Foil cutters remove the capsule neatly and cleanly. With a single motion, they help you achieve an even cut and avoid messy tearing on everyday bottles. They are convenient and easy to use at home.
Key points
Ideal for
- Clean and even foil removal at home
- Bottles with standard aluminum capsules
Pro Tip: Sommeliers typically do not use foil cutters. Instead, they cut the capsule with the small serrated knife on a double-hinged corkscrew. This method offers better precision, works on all capsule types, and allows you to cut just below the bottle’s lip. Hence, the wine flows over clean glass only, never touching the capsule, ensuring a more hygienic, professional presentation.
2) Aeration, decanting, and pouring tools
Once the bottle is open, the wine begins to unfold. Some wines benefit from air contact, while others require gentle handling to avoid disturbing sediment. These tools help you manage that process and serve the wine at its best.
Decanters
A decanter allows wine to breathe and release its aromas. The right shape makes a real difference. Young, structured wines benefit from a wide-base decanter that maximizes air contact, while older or fragile wines require a tall, narrow decanter that allows gentle pouring and keeps sediment behind. With the proper technique, decanting can reveal depth, soften texture, and unlock layers that remain hidden when the wine is poured directly from the bottle.
Choosing the right decanter shape
Wide-base decanters (young wines)
A broad, low decanter exposes more wine to oxygen, which is ideal for young reds that need time to open. It helps soften tannins, release aromatics, and make the wine more expressive.
Tall, narrow decanters (older wines)
A slender, upright shape allows slow, controlled pouring and reduces agitation. It protects fragile aromas and helps separate sediment while preserving the wine’s freshness.
Key points
When to decant
- Young red wines with firm tannins
- Wines that feel closed, tight, or muted
- Whites showing a reductive aroma
- Mature wines with sediment
How long to decant
- Young reds: 1 to 2 hours
- Robust reds: up to 4 hours
- Aromatic whites: 15 to 30 minutes
- Older wines: minimal exposure and immediate service
Pro Tip: For slightly reductive whites, a gentle swirl in the decanter helps release faint sulfur notes quickly.
Pro Tip: When decanting older wines, place a light behind the bottle to see the sediment and stop pouring at the right moment.
Pro Tip: Clean decanters with warm water only. Use cleaning beads if necessary, and let the decanter dry upside down to avoid marks.
Aerators
Aerators introduce air into the wine immediately upon pouring. They are handy for young reds that need quick softening. While they cannot replace the slow development of extended decanting, they are excellent when you want a wine to open quickly.
Key points
Best for
- Young and vigorous reds
- Casual dinners
- Situations with little time for decanting
Advantages
- Instant oxygenation
- Compact and easy to use
Pro Tip: Hold the aerator close to the glass to avoid splashes and maintain a smooth flow.
Pro Tip: Rinse it immediately after use to keep its internal passages clean.
Wine funnels with filters
A filtered funnel is perfect for older wines. It catches sediment and cork fragments while allowing the wine to flow gently into a decanter. This protects the clarity and smoothness of mature wines.
Key points
When to use
- Mature wines with sediment
- Unfiltered wines
- Bottles with damaged corks
Advantages
- Clear, clean wine
- Gentle handling of delicate bottles
Pro Tip: Pour slowly and steadily for the cleanest result.
Pro Tip: Replace the mesh filter regularly to avoid transferring unwanted aromas.
3) Temperature control tools
Temperature has a major impact on how wine tastes. Too warm and the wine feels heavy; too cold and the aromas disappear. These tools help you serve wine at its ideal temperature.
Wine thermometers
Wine thermometers help you check whether the bottle is at the correct serving temperature. Sleeve thermometers measure the outside of the bottle, while probe thermometers measure the wine directly.
Key points
Recommended temperatures
- Sparkling wines: 6 to 8°C
- Crisp whites and rosés: 8 to 10°C
- Full-bodied whites: 10 to 12°C
- Light reds: 12 to 14°C
- Full-bodied reds: 16 to 18°C
Pro Tip: If the room is warm, serve the wine slightly cooler; it will warm quickly in the glass.
Ice buckets
An ice-filled bucket chills wine quickly and evenly. The water increases contact and speeds up the cooling process.
Key points
Best for
- Chilling sparkling wines
- Outdoor service
- Quick adjustments
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of salt to the ice water to speed up cooling.
Double-walled wine chillers
Double-walled chillers keep an already chilled bottle at the right temperature. They do not cool warm wine, but they maintain freshness during service.
Key points
Ideal for
- Whites and rosés
- Warm rooms or summer meals
- Slow-paced service
Pro Tip: Chill the wine first in an ice bath, then transfer it to the chiller for a stable temperature.
Wine fridges
A wine fridge maintains a stable temperature and protects bottles from heat and fluctuations. It is ideal for short-term storage and keeping wine ready to serve.
Key points
Types
- Single-zone for mainly red wines
- Dual-zone for both reds and whites
Pro Tip: Avoid opening the door too often. Frequent temperature fluctuations can affect the wine.
4) Serving tools
Good service is about precision and presentation. These tools help you pour wine cleanly and present it professionally and elegantly.
Polishing cloths
A high-quality microfiber cloth ensures crystal-clear glassware. It removes streaks, water spots, and lint without leaving any scent behind.
Key points
Advantages
- Perfect, lint-free results
- Safe for delicate crystal
Pro Tip: Polish glasses while they are still slightly warm from washing; the heat helps remove moisture quickly.
Pouring accessories
Pouring accessories ensure a clean, precise service and protect tablecloths, bottle labels, and guests from accidental drips. Depending on the model, they either control the flow of wine, prevent drops from running down the bottle, or improve the visual elegance of pouring.
Types
- Pour spouts: Provide a smooth, steady flow and help avoid splashing.
- Anti-drip rings: Absorb drops that run down the neck after pouring.
- Drop stoppers: Thin discs inserted into the bottle to guide the wine cleanly.
Advantages
- Cleaner, more controlled pouring
- Reduced drips and stains
- More elegant service for dinners and tastings
Pro Tip: Always test your pourer with a small amount of wine before serving guests.
Pro Tip: Wash anti-drip rings by hand to protect the absorbent material.
5) Preservation tools
Once a bottle is opened, oxygen begins to change the wine. Preservation tools help slow this process and allow you to enjoy the wine over several days or, in some cases, several weeks.
Vacuum pumps
Vacuum pumps remove air from the bottle to slow down oxidation. They are effective for everyday wines and keep them fresh for a short period.
Key points
Best for
- Young whites and reds
- Everyday bottles
Pro Tip: Avoid using vacuum pumps on older wines, as removing too much air can flatten delicate aromas.
Inert gas sprays
Inert gas sprays protect wine by creating a gas layer on the surface that prevents oxygen from reaching the liquid. They work very well for premium bottles and aromatic varieties.
Key points
Advantages
- Better preservation than vacuum pumps
- Ideal for high-quality wines
Pro Tip: Use short, controlled bursts rather than long sprays to avoid disturbing the wine.
Coravin
Coravin allows you to pour wine without removing the cork. A thin needle extracts the wine, while argon gas fills the space left behind. This prevents oxidation and allows you to enjoy the bottle over a long period.
Key points
Best for
- Premium wines
- Tasting multiple bottles
- People who drink one glass at a time
Pro Tip: After removing the needle, gently tap the cork to help it reseal.
Pro Tip: Avoid using Coravin on bottles with damaged or loose corks, as they may allow air in.
Sparkling wine stoppers
Sparkling wine stoppers keep the pressure inside the bottle so the bubbles stay intact for several days. They are essential for Champagne and other sparkling wines.
Key points
Ideal for
- Champagne
- Prosecco
- Cava
Pro Tip: Store opened sparkling wine upright. This reduces the surface area in contact with oxygen and helps maintain carbonation.
Elevating the experience
The right wine accessories make serving wine easier, cleaner, and more enjoyable. They help each bottle show its best side, whether you are opening a young red, pouring a mature vintage, or saving the last glass for later. With a small selection of well-chosen tools, you can bring more confidence and pleasure to every moment you spend with wine.
