How to Close a Wine Bottle with a Cork? Mastering the Art of Preservation
This guide demystifies the process of resealing a wine bottle. Effectively closing a wine bottle with a cork involves applying gentle pressure and utilizing a tool or technique to ensure a firm and airtight seal, preventing spoilage and preserving your wine’s delicate flavor profile.
Why Bother Resealing Wine? The Importance of Preservation
Left open, wine is susceptible to oxidation, a process that causes it to lose its intended flavors and aromas. Reintroducing a cork – done correctly – significantly slows down this degradation, allowing you to enjoy the remaining wine later without sacrificing its quality. Beyond oxidation, open wine can also absorb ambient odors and flavors, further compromising the drinking experience. Closing it well avoids having to throw it away!
Benefits of Properly Resealing Wine
The benefits of mastering the art of re-corking are numerous:
- Extended Wine Lifespan: Keep your wine fresh for several days.
- Reduced Waste: Avoid pouring good wine down the drain.
- Preservation of Flavor and Aroma: Maintain the wine’s intended character.
- Cost Savings: Enjoy the value of the entire bottle over time.
The Process: Step-by-Step Guide to Re-corking
Here’s how to effectively close a wine bottle using the original cork:
- Inspect the Cork: Examine the cork for damage or excessive swelling. A badly damaged cork is difficult to reuse.
- Prepare the Cork: If the cork is dry, try moistening it slightly with a few drops of wine. Avoid soaking it, as this can lead to mold growth.
- Insert the Cork: Hold the bottle firmly. Gently position the bottom end of the cork into the bottle’s opening.
- Apply Pressure: Using a cork pusher (recommended), a wine key (with care), or even your thumbs (least effective), carefully push the cork back into the bottle. Apply even pressure to avoid breaking the cork.
- Leave a Margin: Don’t try to force the cork all the way back in. Leaving a small portion of the cork protruding (around half an inch) is perfectly acceptable. It creates a tighter seal.
- Store Correctly: Store the re-corked bottle upright in the refrigerator. This minimizes the surface area of the wine exposed to air.
Tools of the Trade: Cork Pushers and Alternatives
While a strong hand can sometimes suffice, specialized tools can significantly simplify the re-corking process.
| Tool | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cork Pusher | A dedicated tool specifically designed for inserting corks back into bottles. | Provides leverage and even pressure, minimizing the risk of damaging the cork or bottle. | Requires purchase; may not be readily available. |
| Wine Key (Corkscrew) | The lever arm and screw component of a wine key can be used to gently push the cork in. | Commonly available; dual-purpose tool. | Requires careful technique to avoid breaking the cork; less leverage than a pusher. |
| Thumbs | Using your thumbs to push the cork in. | No tools required; convenient. | Requires significant strength and dexterity; high risk of damaging the cork. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure a successful re-corking:
- Forcing the Cork: Using excessive force can break the cork or damage the bottle neck.
- Ignoring Cork Damage: A severely damaged cork should not be reused. Opt for a wine stopper instead.
- Storing Bottles Horizontally: Storing re-corked bottles horizontally increases the surface area exposed to air, accelerating oxidation.
- Over-moistening the Cork: Too much moisture can lead to mold and off-flavors.
Alternative Wine Preservation Methods
While re-corking is a common method, several other options can extend the life of your opened wine.
- Wine Stoppers: Rubber or silicone stoppers create an airtight seal.
- Vacuum Wine Preservers: These devices remove air from the bottle, slowing oxidation.
- Inert Gas Systems: These systems introduce an inert gas (like argon) into the bottle, creating a protective barrier.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if the cork breaks when I try to re-cork the bottle?
If the cork breaks, do not attempt to force the broken pieces into the bottle. Instead, opt for a wine stopper or vacuum wine preserver. You can also try carefully removing the remaining portion of the broken cork from the bottle neck.
How long will wine last after it has been re-corked?
Re-corked wine typically lasts for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Red wines may last slightly longer than white wines. The key is to minimize exposure to air and temperature fluctuations.
Is it better to re-cork red wine or white wine?
While both red and white wines can be re-corked, red wines tend to hold up slightly better after being opened due to their higher tannin content, which acts as a natural preservative.
Can I re-cork sparkling wine?
Re-corking sparkling wine is generally not effective in preserving its bubbles. Invest in a sparkling wine stopper specifically designed to maintain the pressure inside the bottle.
Is it possible to over-tighten the cork?
Yes, over-tightening the cork can actually damage the wine or even break the bottle neck. Apply gentle, even pressure when re-corking.
Should I moisten the cork before re-inserting it?
Slightly moistening a dry cork with a few drops of wine can make it more pliable and easier to re-insert. However, avoid over-saturating the cork.
What if the cork is swollen and won’t fit back into the bottle?
If the cork is significantly swollen, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to re-insert it. Use a wine stopper as an alternative. Trying to force a swollen cork can damage the bottle.
Does the type of cork (natural vs. synthetic) affect the re-corking process?
Synthetic corks are generally easier to re-insert than natural corks, as they are less prone to swelling. However, the basic principles of re-corking remain the same regardless of the cork material.
Is it necessary to refrigerate wine after re-corking?
Yes, refrigerating re-corked wine is highly recommended, even for red wines. Lower temperatures slow down the rate of oxidation and help preserve the wine’s flavor and aroma.
Can I use a screwdriver to push the cork back in?
While technically possible, using a screwdriver is not recommended as it can easily damage the cork or the bottle neck. Stick to a cork pusher or a wine key for a safer and more effective re-corking experience.
What’s the best way to clean a used cork before re-inserting it?
Wipe the cork with a clean, dry cloth to remove any debris or wine residue. Avoid using soap or water, as these can contaminate the wine.
Are there any wines that are particularly difficult to re-cork?
Wines with very delicate corks, or those that have been stored improperly (resulting in a fragile cork), can be more challenging to re-cork. Exercise extra caution when handling these wines.