How to Remove a Label From a Wine Bottle

Wine labels

True wine aficionados cherish not only the beverage, but the bottle, the cork and the label. They are all, after all, integral to the wine experience. That is why so many connoisseurs possess scrap books of their favorite labels, including notations on the wine's body, bouquet, color and taste, alongside the remembrances of the event that accompanied the wine's consumption. A sticking point to that particular hobby, however, is that sticky label. And while the mission of removing label from bottle was once a pretty simple undertaking, today's adhesives present more of a challenge. Getting that label off so that it resembles what was on the bottle takes time and patience, but it can still be accomplished.

Things You'll Need

• Clear packing tape
• Razor

Instructions

1. Purchase a wine label removing product, such as the Wine Appeal Label Remover. Sold typically in packs of 10, the product comes with easy to understand directions. You simply cover the label on the bottle with the tape-like product and pull the label off. However, other methods work just as well and won't cost you much, but time.

2. Create your own label-removing system. Much like the product in Step 1, clear tape can be applied to a bottle to remove its label. Use a clear, wide, packing tape (which you can find at any office supply store). Cut the tape so it will completely cover the label. You probably will need to use two strips. Carefully fill the bottle with extremely hot tap water, making certain that the label does not get wet. Put the tape evenly over the label, using first your hands then a wooden spoon or plastic knife to rub on it. Use the second strip the same way. Allow it to set for five minutes, then remove tape along with the label. Trim to desired size.

3. Soak the bottle in very hot water for at least a half-hour. Judge the readiness of the label to be peeled by loosening the label with your thumbs. If it does not move, add hot water again. A second soaking should allow you to begin the removal process with a razor and finish with your fingers.

4. Use ice water. Anyone who's ever forgotten the beer in the cooler understands how easily labels come off under those neglectful circumstances. Soak an empty wine bottle in ice and water for at least thirty minutes. It should loosen up easily enough so you can remove it with your fingers. If not, start the process with a razor.

Tips & Warnings

• Labels fall into different categories depending upon the region and age of the wine. Older European bottles tend to have labels that are easier to remove. If you have a new bottle from a California vineyard, you may struggle to remove the label from its sticky adhesive without ruining it.

• The problem with the methods in Steps 3 and 4 is that the label will be wet and may be damaged. Once you have removed the label, place it between two paper towels to dry.

Resources

• Source for ordering a label removal product