How to Get a Wine Cork Out Without a Corkscrew

A corkscrew is not absolutely necessary to open a bottle of wine.

If you are not a regular wine drinker, the presence of a wine bottle and the lack of a corkscrew can be a problem. A corkscrew is designed to puncture the end of the cork and work its way securely into the stopper, allowing you to pull it out. However, even without a corkscrew, it is entirely possible to open the wine bottle so that you and your guests can enjoy it. Follow these steps to open a bottle of wine without a corkscrew.

Things You'll Need

• 2-inch screw
• Screwdriver
• Hammer

Instructions

1. Center a 2-inch screw so that the point is sitting squarely in the middle of the cork.

2. Use a screwdriver to work the screw into place, twisting it so that it enters the cork like a corkscrew would. Continue until all but 1/2 inch of the screw remains outside of the cork.

3. Catch the head of the screw with claw end of a hammer.

4. Hold the wine bottle securely and pull slowly and steadily with the hammer until the cork pops out.

Tips & Warnings

• If you plan to finish the wine in one sitting, push the cork into the bottle using a capped pen until you can pour the wine freely.

References

• Gomestic; Open a Wine Bottle WIthout a Corkscrew; Louie Jerome; June 2007
• Home and Garden Ideas; How to Open Wine Without a Corkscrew; Meredith Berg; April 2011