How to Fold a Towel Around a Champagne Bottle

Even if you have extensive experience opening champagne bottles, your next one may still prove to be a surprise if you’re not careful. Using a towel during this procedure can prevent many an unwanted accident. And if a mishap still occurs, at least you have something to clean up with.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Washcloth or hand towel
• Bottle of champagne

1. Remove the foil wrapping on the wine bottle. Remove the wire cage by twisting counterclockwise, but maintain pressure against the cork with your thumb at all times. Once the cage is off, the cork can easily follow unless you hold it back.
2. Grab the towel with your free hand and place it on top of the bottle, so that the towel is pulling the cork down against the bottle.
3. Wrap your fingers around the neck of the bottle, with at least your thumb and index finger around the cork. Avoid placing your palm against the top of the cork.
4. Hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle away from yourself and everyone else. If you wish to wrap the body of the champagne bottle in a towel to present it to your guests, fold a small towel in half and place it underneath the bottle. When displaying the bottle to your guests, have the label facing outward. The label should not be blocked by the towel.
5. Turn the bottle, not the cork, and resist any sudden pushes the gas may exert against the cork. A small "pop" should be heard once the cork is released. Keep the cork in position until the bottle is brought upright again.
6. Remove the towel and cork. Use the towel to catch any champagne that may try to escape.