Sommelier Waiters Corkscrew

The sommelier waiter's corkscrew is the folding, pocket-sized opener used in restaurants and wine bars. Tools in this style usually combine three parts in one handle: a spiral worm that bores into the cork, a small blade for cutting the foil, and a hinged lever that rests on the bottle lip to pull the cork out in two stages. This one is sold under the Esplanda brand. Check the listing for its specific materials and dimensions, since those can vary between models. The technique is the same across the style. Cut the foil just under the bottle's lip and remove the top, then centre the tip of the worm on the cork and turn it in steadily. Stop when only one turn of the spiral is still visible, so the worm stays clear of the bottom of the cork and doesn't push crumbs into the wine. Hinge the first notch of the lever onto the lip and lift the cork about halfway. Then move to the second notch and finish the pull gently. Easing the last centimetre out by hand avoids a loud pop, and it keeps the cork intact on older bottles. A folding corkscrew works best on natural corks in still and sparkling wine bottles alike. For sparkling wine, keep the cage and your hand over the cork and lean on the bottle's pressure rather than the lever. Its compact shape suits a pocket, apron, or picnic bag better than a bulky lever-style opener. Wipe the worm clean and dry before folding it away. Wine residue left in the spiral can leave a stale smell that carries to the next cork.