Accessories · Opening & Serving
The Best Corkscrews of 2024: Tested by Real Drinkers
A great corkscrew is a lifetime tool; a bad one ruins good wine. We've evaluated the main designs for reliability, cork-safety and ergonomics.
Here are the categories worth trusting, with the details that decide between a tool and a nuisance.
By Worldwide Wines Reviews Team
The three you'll actually use
The sommelier two-step (waiter's knife) is the professional standard — portable, precise and under $30 at high quality. Lever corkscrews extract with one motion, ideal for heavy hosting. Electric openers suit anyone with limited grip or opening many bottles.
- Waiter's knife — $10–$30, the daily professional
- Lever corkscrew — $80–$200, effortless extraction
- Electric opener — $20–$60, best for bulk and grip ease
What separates great from just-okay
Look for a smooth, coated worm that twists without stripping, a sharp foil cutter, and solid all-metal construction. Double-hinged waiters' knives give the best leverage on stubborn corks.
Avoid gimmicky novelty openers and the cheapest plastic levers — they bend, strip corks and frustrate.
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