There’s a moment – usually at a dinner party – when someone pulls out a corkscrew that looks like it belongs in a Bond film. Chrome, weighty, probably engraved. And suddenly you’re left wondering: do expensive corkscrews actually matter? Or is it just wine theatre?

Do expensive corkscrews actually matter? Fancy corkscrew on wooden table with bottle and glass

Quick Answer: Not Really, But Also… Kind Of?

Most expensive corkscrews aren’t better – they’re just fancier. They do the same job as a £6 waiter’s friend, just with more flair. Some feel nicer. Some look flashier. But unless you’re opening cases of old Bordeaux or doing wine service for a living, you probably don’t need anything more than the basics.

Let’s Break Them Down

  • The Waiter’s Friend – Cheap, reliable, folds into your pocket. There’s a reason sommeliers still use them. Bonus if it’s double-hinged.
  • Winged Corkscrew – Looks like a robot having a panic attack. Easy to use, but struggles with long or crumbly corks.
  • Lever Corkscrew (a.k.a. the Rabbit) – Great for weak wrists or arthritic hands. Slightly overkill for casual drinkers but very smooth.
  • Electric Corkscrews – Absolutely not. Unless you’ve lost all will to live or host too many hen parties.
  • Somm-style luxury corkscrews – Hand-forged, ergonomic, often £100+. Will they open wine better? No. Will you feel sexier using it? Possibly.

When the Corkscrew *Does* Matter

If you drink a lot of older wine with fragile corks, a good corkscrew (or a two-pronged Ah-So) can make a difference. Expensive corkscrews might matter more when precision is needed – like when you’re trying to look impressive while opening something special from 1999 without pushing the cork in.

But for most people, a well-made waiter’s friend does the job with far more grace than a clunky gadget ever will.

So… Should You Buy One?

If you love wine, like shiny things, and want to feel fancy – sure. Treat yourself. But don’t expect miracles. That £80 corkscrew won’t make the wine taste better. It’ll just look nice on your countertop while your £7 one from Amazon does the same thing behind the scenes.

Still curious? Serious Eats did a brilliant roundup of corkscrews worth buying – high-end and budget alike.

One Corkscrew to Rule Them All?

Honestly? Just get a double-hinged waiter’s friend with a serrated foil cutter. Preferably one that’s lived through at least three birthdays and a kitchen drawer relocation. That’s the real MVP.

Want More Wine Logic? We’ve Got You.

This post is part of our Weird Wine Questions series. From fridge fails to rosé regrets, we’re here to answer the wine stuff people are too embarrassed to Google.

Final Sip

Do expensive corkscrews actually matter? Not really – but confidence does. Use whatever makes you feel like the kind of person who knows what they’re doing. Bonus points if it opens the bottle on the first try.