Durand Wine Opener

Aged corks lose their elasticity and structural integrity over time, making them prone to crumbling or breaking when standard corkscrews are used. The Durand is specifically engineered to stabilize these fragile corks from both the inside and outside, ensuring they are removed in one piece.

The tool uses a two-step process: first, you insert the helix into the center of the cork to provide a secure grip, and then you slide the twin blades down the sides of the cork. This combination creates a cradle that supports the cork, preventing it from disintegrating or falling into the bottle as you pull.

While you can technically use it on any bottle, it is overkill for standard, younger wines with healthy corks. It is designed specifically for vintage bottles where the cork is likely to be compromised.

It requires a bit more technique than a standard waiter's corkscrew, but it is straightforward once you understand the two-part motion. It is worth practicing on a few standard bottles first to get comfortable with the rhythm of inserting the helix and sliding the blades.

The Durand is constructed from durable zinc alloy and steel. This heavy-duty build provides the necessary stability and leverage to handle delicate, long-stored bottles safely.