Planning a September trip to Paris? Make room for a different kind of wine discovery. From September 10–19, 2026, L’Atelier du Vin and Architecture Intérieure du Vin welcome Paris Design Week visitors to their permanent showroom at 80 rue Bonaparte, where French wine tools, tasting glassware, and cellar design come together.

For American wine lovers and design enthusiasts, our Saint-Germain-des-Prés showroom offers a chance to get to know the people and ideas behind the objects. Meet a designer, follow a sketch as it takes shape, or consider how a room can be built around a wine collection.

This is our first Paris Design Week, and we have planned a series of personal, hands-on encounters. Use the schedule below to find the experience that fits your Paris itinerary.

French Wine Design, Up Close

A corkscrew on the dinner table can tell a much larger story. In our centennial year, we are opening a window onto the design thinking that has shaped L’Atelier du Vin since 1926.

The way a tool rests in your hand, the movement of wine inside a glass, and the place a bottle occupies in a room all guide our work. Each is an opportunity to make enjoying wine feel more thoughtful and intuitive.

At the showroom, you can explore these ideas with the people who develop them. The week connects objects you might use at home with the creative process behind them in France.

Choose Your Paris Design Week Experience

WEEKEND SESSIONS

September
12, 13 & 19

A New Perspective on Wine Aromas

11 a.m.–7 p.m. Paris time · September 12, 13, and 19

Take an early look at L’Exploreur® 655 – Aroma Line, the new tasting glass collection being previewed in our Paris showroom. This encounter explores an essential part of tasting: what you notice before the first sip.

The glass is designed to encourage a closer exploration of wine aromas. Its form becomes part of the experience as you observe the wine and gently move it in the bowl.

Our patented Nervure des Arômes, or Aroma Line, interacts with that movement to help release aromatic molecules. The session offers a way to discover the idea through your own senses.

Add this stop to your weekend in Saint-Germain to learn more about our approach to glassware.

Plan Your Stop on the Left Bank

Our showroom is in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, on Paris’s Left Bank. Choose your dates from the program before you visit, and contact the showroom for attendance details or questions about a particular session. All listed times are local Paris time (CEST).

L’Atelier du Vin at Paris Design Week
September 10–19, 2026
80 rue Bonaparte
75006 Paris, France
All events take place at our Paris showroom.

Before You Visit: Helpful Answers

Perhaps you will leave with a new way to think about a familiar corkscrew, a fresh interest in wine aromas, or the first sketch of a cellar. Our Paris Design Week program invites you to bring those discoveries back to the moments you share around wine at home.

Find us at 80 rue Bonaparte, September 10–19, 2026. We look forward to being part of your time in Paris.

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Celebrating a unique partnership, L’Atelier du Vin introduces an exclusive wine accessory line as part of the Paul Smith Series. This limited-edition range showcases two superior wine tools, distinguished by the iconic style of the renowned British fashion designer, Paul Smith.

Encased in Italian leather pouches, expertly stitched by hand, the Soft Machine and Oeno Motion Nomad from the Paul Smith Series exhibit the exemplary French craftsmanship of L’Atelier du Vin. This special collection is exclusively available in select Paul Smith fashion and design boutiques.

Innovative Union: Fusing Fashion, Wine, and Design

The Paul Smith Series by L’Atelier du Vin represents a creative fusion of fashion and oenology. Both brands, renowned for their commitment to design and craftsmanship, share a passion for authenticity, creativity, elegance, and ergonomic design.

© Marie Lukasiewicz

This collaboration showcases the commitment of both brands to quality, detail, and individuality in design. The partnership, blending the world of wine with fashion, results from a rich exchange between Paul Smith and the creative minds at L’Atelier du Vin, including our design collaborator Margherita Matticari.

Paul Smith Series Travel Wine Kits

The premium packaging of the Paul Smith Series is a testament to quality, featuring the dual branding of L’Atelier du Vin and Paul Smith. The box, resembling a high-quality canvas, protects these artistic tools.

© Marie Lukasiewicz

The travel kit’s exterior, crafted from genuine Italian leather and stitched by hand, invites admiration and touch. The same branding graces the robust protective case, celebrating this unique partnership.

© Marie Lukasiewicz

Exclusive Collectible Corkscrews

The Paul Smith Series unveils corkscrews that are a blend of vibrant colors, premium materials, and harmonious design. Encased in soft leather, these collectible corkscrews are as aesthetically pleasing as they are functional.

The Nomad for Paul Smith bottle openers, perfect for enthusiasts of wine, design, and unique collectibles, are a testament to L’Atelier du Vin’s expertise in corkscrew design since 1926. These tools are ideal for travel or as memorable gifts, embodying the essence of France, England, and Italy.

Soft Machine Nomad for Paul Smith

The Soft Machine Nomad corkscrew in the Paul Smith Series is a sommelier’s delight. Housed in a bottle-green case with a sky-blue leather strap, its stainless steel and brass handle shines like wine in a glass.

© Marie Lukasiewicz

Featuring an innovative mechanism for seamless cork extraction and an integrated foil cutter, the Soft Machine Nomad corkscrew is a testament to elegance and functionality.

Oeno Motion Nomad for Paul Smith

The Oeno Motion Nomad corkscrew in the Paul Smith Series is a sensory experience. Its Italian leather case, inspired by red wine and grapes, showcases a deep red and purple interior. The design is a tribute to fine leatherwork.

© Marie Lukasiewicz

Accented with a bright yellow strap, the Oeno Motion Wood & Chrome lever corkscrew is a French masterpiece, known for its reliable mechanism and solid wood handle.

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Editorial, visual and graphic elements strictly linked to copyrights. For any request for partial or total use, please contact us.

The post Exclusive Paul Smith Series by L’Atelier du Vin: A Limited-Edition Wine Accessory Range appeared first on L’Atelier du Vin.

From the rolling vineyards of Champagne to the stylish quarters of Paris, our family-run company has perfected the art of creating wine tools that are as aesthetically pleasing as they are practical.

In 2022, we expanded our horizons by setting up shop in the U.S., bringing the Oeno Motion Transatlantic® corkscrew – a symbol of the deep-rooted friendship between France and America – exclusively to our American customers.

The Story of L’Atelier du Vin Goes American

Our U.S. journey began over twenty years ago when the head of our clan and Georges’s father, Pierre, took the family’s passion for wine to Harvard Business School. There, he shared the rich tapestry of French wine culture, planting the seeds for our future stateside success.

American wine lovers quickly took to our products, now showcased in iconic stores such as MoMA in New York, Wine Enthusiast, Neiman Marcus, and Mr Porter.

Introducing L’Atelier du Vin USA

Our new American branch launched in May 2022 signifies a tailored approach to the U.S. market. Based in Georgia, we promise quick shipping across the country, while our American website serves up a shopping experience designed with the U.S. consumer in mind.

Our clientele ranges from high-end eateries to boutique shops, wine merchants, luxury accommodations, vineyards, pubs, and art enthusiasts, all seeking the authentic French touch that our wine accessories bring.

Oeno Motion Transatlantic®: A Special Edition for the U.S.

In the same way the Statue of Liberty stands as a joint monument to our countries’ bond, the Oeno Motion Transatlantic® corkscrew is our homage to this alliance, available only in a special U.S. edition. Its striking blue handle and functional design, featuring a lever and built-in foil cutter, make wine opening smooth and stylish, a true nod to our shared wine heritage.

Explore L’Atelier du Vin’s Complete Collection

We offer an array of luxurious wine accessories, from sleek decanters and corkscrews to elegant champagne glasses, cutting-edge aerators, and preservation systems. Step into L’Atelier du Vin’s world for the epitome of wine tasting excellence.

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Editorial, visual and graphic elements strictly linked to copyrights. For any request of partial or total use, contact us.

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The best wine opener depends on the bottle and the person using it. A waiter’s corkscrew offers an excellent balance of control and portability for everyday use, a lever corkscrew reduces effort, a winged or endless model favors simplicity, and a twin-blade corkscrew is designed for old or fragile corks.

Wine Openers Compared at a Glance

There is no single opener that is ideal for every person and every bottle. The right choice depends on whether you prioritize portability, speed, reduced effort, presentation or the careful handling of an aged cork.

What Is the Best Wine Opener for Most People?

For many wine drinkers, a well-made waiter’s corkscrew is the most versatile starting point. It is compact, easy to store and gives the user direct control over the cork. Most versions combine a spiral, lever and foil-cutting blade in one foldable tool.

How to Choose a Wine Opener

Start With the Bottle and Cork

A young bottle with a sound natural or synthetic cork can be opened with most common corkscrews. An older cork may become brittle, porous or difficult to grip, making a conventional spiral more likely to split or crumble it.

For mature bottles, a twin-blade corkscrew slides between the cork and glass instead of driving a spiral through the cork. For everyday bottles with intact closures, waiter’s, lever, winged and endless corkscrews are convenient options.

Consider Frequency and Hand Comfort

A compact waiter’s corkscrew is practical for occasional opening and professional table service. A lever mechanism can be more comfortable when you regularly open several bottles during dinners, events or tastings.

A winged or endless model may suit an occasional user who prefers to leave the bottle on a stable surface.

The best corkscrew should feel stable in your hand. Compare the shape of the handle, the amount of leverage and whether the motion requires twisting, squeezing or pulling.

Think About Where You Will Use It

A waiter’s corkscrew slips into a pocket, drawer or travel case. A lever opener is better suited to a kitchen, bar cart or tasting room. A twin-blade opener belongs naturally in a cellar kit, especially when mature bottles are opened regularly.

Gift buyers may also prefer a presentation set or a model that can be personalized. In that case, consider not only the opening mechanism but also the materials, storage case and visual presence of the tool.

Look Beyond the Initial Purchase

Check whether frequently used components can be replaced, whether the tool includes a foil cutter and how its mechanism should be cleaned or maintained.

A premium wine opener should not be judged by appearance alone. Ergonomics, stability, material quality, replacement parts and suitability for the intended bottles are more useful buying criteria.

Waiter’s Corkscrew: Best All-Around Choice

Also called a waiter’s friend, sommelier corkscrew or wine key, this foldable opener places a spiral and lever in a compact body. Many models also include a foil-cutting blade.

It is a strong choice for:

• everyday wine bottles;
• restaurant and table service;
• compact storage;
• travel;
• buyers seeking one practical first corkscrew.

The main trade-off is technique. The spiral should enter near the center of the cork, and the lever should rest securely on the bottle lip. A double-step mechanism can make the extraction more gradual and controlled.

L’Atelier du Vin’s Chef Sommelier combines a double-lever mechanism, foil-cutting blade, steel body and wood handle. The Garçon emphasizes a compact, pocket-friendly format with an integrated foil cutter.

Lever Corkscrew: Best for Easy, Frequent Opening

A lever corkscrew grips the bottle neck and uses a larger handle to insert the spiral and lift the cork. Its mechanical advantage reduces the twisting and pulling required from the user.

Choose a lever wine opener when you:

• entertain frequently;
• open several bottles at a time;
• prefer a larger and more comfortable motion;
• want a visually distinctive wine tool;
• are selecting a premium wine gift.

Lever openers are larger than waiter’s corkscrews and contain moving parts, so storage, maintenance and the availability of replacement components should be considered.

The Oeno Motion Wood & Black uses a vertical lever mechanism, an integrated foil cutter and a solid walnut handle. Its presentation box and strong visual identity also make it suitable for gifting.

Winged Corkscrew: Best for Familiar Home Use

A winged corkscrew has two arms that rise as the center handle turns the spiral into the cork. Pressing the arms downward lifts the cork while the bottle remains on a stable surface.

This familiar mechanism can work well for casual meals and shared kitchens. Its limits are portability and precision. A winged corkscrew is larger than a wine key and provides less direct feedback during extraction, so it is not the preferred tool for an old or fragile cork.

L’Atelier du Vin’s The “de Gaulle” model uses a double-lever mechanism and combines the recognizable winged silhouette with a bottle opener.

Endless Corkscrew: Best for Continuous Turning

An endless corkscrew, also called a continuous-turn or twist corkscrew, sits over the bottle neck. As the handle turns in one direction, the mechanism drives the spiral into the cork and gradually raises it.

This design can feel intuitive because it replaces a separate upward pull with one repeated turning motion. The base helps keep the spiral centered, making it suitable for beginners and everyday corks.

An endless corkscrew is generally larger than a wine key and may take longer than a lever opener. It is intended for sound closures rather than badly degraded corks.

Twin-Blade Corkscrew: Best for Old or Fragile Corks

A twin-blade corkscrew uses two thin blades of different lengths. The blades slide between the cork and the bottle neck, surrounding the cork so it can be twisted and lifted without being pierced.

This type of opener is particularly relevant for:

• mature wines;
• brittle or porous corks;
• collectible bottles;
• corks that the owner wants to preserve intact;
• bottles where a conventional spiral may cause the closure to crumble.

L’Atelier du Vin patented the Bilame twin-blade corkscrew in 1949. To use it, insert the longer blade first, work both blades downward with a gentle alternating motion, then twist while pulling upward. Practicing on an everyday bottle is sensible before using the technique on a valuable vintage.

Which Wine Opener Should You Buy?

Choose according to your primary use:

Collectors may benefit from owning two tools: a waiter’s or lever corkscrew for regular bottles and a twin-blade model for older vintages.

Gift buyers should also consider the recipient’s habits. A compact sommelier corkscrew suits someone who enjoys traditional wine service, while a lever model offers an easier motion and stronger visual presence. A Bilame makes a distinctive gift for a collector who already owns conventional corkscrews.

What Features Make a Good Corkscrew?

Frequently Asked Questions

Choose the Best Wine Opener for Your Ritual

The best wine opener is the one that matches your bottles, hands and habits. A waiter’s corkscrew offers compact versatility, a lever opener brings comfort and speed, a winged or endless model suits familiar home use, and a twin-blade corkscrew helps protect old or fragile corks.

Compare the different mechanisms before choosing. The right corkscrew should make opening a bottle feel controlled and natural while respecting the wine, the cork and the moment of service.

The post Best Wine Opener for Every Bottle: How to Choose the Right Corkscrew appeared first on L’Atelier du Vin.

Wine glasses are a crucial tool for wine lovers, as they allow the wine to reveal its true colors and express itself fully. To select the perfect wine glass for your vintage wine, you must take several factors into account. This guide on wine glasses will help you choose the right glass for your oenological needs and shed light on the importance of these sacred chalices.

Definition and Characteristics of a Wine Glass

A wine glass is a unique, crystalline receptacle designed specifically for tasting the nectar of the vineyards. It is easily recognizable by its stem, base, and calyx, and its ergonomic design is intended to provide the best possible tasting experience whether you are at a dinner table, in a wine cellar, or on a vineyard. The shape, size, and capacity of the wine glass may differ depending on the type of wine to be served, the region, or other traditions. The manufacturing standards defined by the AFNOR or INAO are important to create a universal reference for wine tasting competitions and valuations.

The Components of a Wine Glass

The design of a wine glass is meticulously crafted, with every element serving a particular purpose, ensuring an optimal tasting experience.

These are the primary elements of a wine glass:

• Calyx or bowl: the oval-shaped body of the glass
• Stem or leg: the lower, vertical part that provides support to the calyx
• Button: the reinforced part of the upper stem that supports the calyx
• Foot or base: the round, horizontal part on which the stem rests.

To prevent any ambiguity, the following terms should be noted to describe specific parts or characteristics of the wine glass’s bowl:

• The paraison: the rounded part of the bowl that holds the wine.
• The shoulder: the widest part of the bowl located in the middle.
• The chimney: the upper part of the bowl that typically narrows towards the top.
• The rim: the upper edge of the bowl that touches the lips during wine tasting.

The Different Types of Wine Glasses

Different tasting glasses can affect how a wine expresses itself. Red wine glasses have a slightly different shape compared to white wine glasses, while champagne flutes or sparkling wine glasses are very distinct.

The Red Wine Glass

The red wine glass has a bigger and deeper calyx than its white wine counterpart. This is because the larger space is necessary for red wine to fully reveal its aromas and flavors when served at room temperature.

The White Wine Glass

The smaller bowl of a white wine glass helps to maintain the wine’s freshness during tasting and preserve the balance of aromas.

The Champagne Flute and Sparkling Wine Glass

Champagne glasses or flutes, commonly used for sparkling wines, feature a slim and slender shape that helps to maintain the effervescence and enhance the bubble burst experience in the mouth.

A Few Tips to Choose the Right Wine Glass

When it comes to wine tasting, selecting the appropriate wine glass is a crucial step as it is the point of transition from the bottle or decanter to your mouth. Therefore, it is important to know which wine glasses are essential for your wine cellar or kitchen cupboard. Below are some practical tips on sommellerie and oenology.

The Aesthetics of a Wine Glass

A wine glass should embody noble virtues such as transparency, simplicity, humility, and finesse, aiming to showcase vintages and allow them to fully express themselves. Ornate colored or patterned glasses should be avoided as the aesthetics of a wine glass should complement the taste. Optimal curves and proportions should be embraced to release the aromas and enhance the taster’s olfactory and gustatory experience.

Regional Variations of Wine Glasses

Each wine-growing region has a unique glass shape that has developed over the years based on local winegrowing, winemaking, and glassmaking traditions, all of which reflect the unique characteristics of local vineyards and grape varieties. Traditional Bordeaux wine glasses are slimmer and longer than the wider Burgundy ones, which provide more enveloping shapes. Alsatian wine glasses are also unique, with high legs and small bowls, that are carefully crafted by expert glassmakers using the Alsatian know-how.

Which Wine Glasses to Choose

When it comes to wine glasses, it’s important to consider which ones you need for different purposes. This includes having everyday glasses for home use, separate glasses for special occasions or wine tasting sessions, and a specific set of glasses for your wine cellar. By distinguishing between these different types of glasses, you can choose the right ones to suit your needs and preferences.

• For home use, it is advisable to possess red and white wine glasses that comply with AFNOR size standards and cater to various grape varieties and AOC vineyards.
• For wine tasting or cellar storage, a dedicated set of wine tasting glasses, like our L’Exploreur Œnologie, is recommended.
• You may also consider purchasing a few regional wine glasses to savor specific grand crus or wines from preferred vineyards, which offers varied tasting experiences based on whether you use oenological wine tasting glasses or traditional regional ones.

How to Use a Wine Tasting Glass

To truly benefit from wine glasses, it’s important to use them correctly and pay attention to the smallest details, including accessories. Every action matters, from the amount of wine you pour to how you hold your wine tasting glass and drink from it. It’s also crucial to know how to maintain and clean your glasses properly. Here are some tips on how to use your tasting glasses effectively and fully appreciate the contents of your valuable wine bottles.

How to Pour Wine into a Tasting Glass

To allow the wine to fully express itself, it’s recommended to pour up to a quarter, but never more than a third, of the calyx. Proper wine tools and accessories should be used to prevent any disturbance to the wine from the moment the bottle is opened to when it’s poured into the glass.

• To properly open and serve wine without any drops or spills, use a sommelier or oenologist corkscrew and a pourer on the neck of the bottle.
• Use a wine decanter to avoid any deposits in the glass if the wine needs to be decanted.
• To aerate a young wine for a longer time, use the Developer Universel, our aerator for wine glasses and decanters, which is placed on the rim.
• For wine tasting sessions or gatherings, keep your glasses organized and add a decorative touch to your table with our colorful wine glass brand, Chic Glass Rainbow.

How to Hold your Wine Tasting Glass

Hold the wine glass by its stem, rather than the bowl, to prevent the warmth of your hand from affecting the wine’s temperature and to avoid obstructing the view of the wine as you swirl it.

How to Drink from a Wine Tasting Glass

Tasting wine in a glass is an art. After pouring the wine using the appropriate accessories, swirl it gently in the crystal bowl while holding the glass by the stem, observing the wine’s tears and colors in the light.

Before tasting, take a moment to appreciate the wine’s aroma by smelling it and breathing in the scent that rises to your nose. You can then take a sip by gently placing your lips on the rim and savoring the wine’s flavor. Take your time and enjoy each sip, swishing it around your mouth to fully experience the wine from start to finish.

How to Clean and Maintain a Wine Glass

To ensure optimal wine tasting experience, it is important to serve wine in a clean and dry glass free from any dust, soap residue, or other debris that may detract from the wine’s flavor. Micro-washing beads are recommended for washing glassware instead of sponges to prevent scratches, and good quality water should be used for rinsing. After cleaning, the glass should be dried with a microfiber polishing cloth like Cristal Cleaner to remove any residual marks or streaks.

When storing wine glasses, it is best to keep them upright in a closed cabinet or hang them upside down in a glass rack, being careful not to damage the rim of the glass by storing them rim-side down.

Our Collection of Wine Tasting Glasses

L’Atelier du Vin has been crafting wine tools and accessories since 1926, providing an authentic wine tasting experience from cellar to table. Explore our selection of wine glasses and pass on the tradition of enjoying wine from one generation to the next.

L’Exploreur Œnologie, our Wine Tasting Glass

The Exploreur Œnology is a wine tasting glass that boasts a patented Aroma Line, originating from France. This exquisite beaded line extends from the paraison to the shoulder of the glass, providing an unparalleled tasting experience by stimulating the senses and releasing the aromas as the wine moves against the wall of the glass.

Additionally, we offer L’Exploreur Spiritueux, a tasting glass designed to enhance your brown spirits. It features a narrow opening and large volume, allowing for maximum olfactory and gustatory pleasure.

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The wine tasting ritual is enriched by a variety of wine accessories, including foil cutters, aerators, decanters, glasses, vacuum pumps, stoppers, and more. However, the most important tool among all of them, for both beginners and experts, is the corkscrew.

The corkscrew has a long history, dating back to the 17th century when glass bottles and corks were introduced to the wine industry. Since then, the bottle opener has evolved into a diverse range of opening mechanisms and unique designs. Some of these antique corkscrews are still in use and highly valued by wine connoisseurs and collectors.

L’Atelier du Vin, formerly known as Sanbri, has been crafting wine tools with unwavering passion since 1926. In addition to creating contemporary corkscrews, we restore old bottle openers, drawing inspiration from the rich tradition of oenology. Our corkscrew designs blend beauty and functionality, with ergonomics being the top priority for enhancing the wine tasting experience.

Cultivating the Art of Making Timeless Wine Tools from 1926 to Today

Designing a wine tool requires attention to every detail. Whether it is used for opening or closing a bottle, storing, preparing, serving, or tasting wine, each tool has a crucial role in creating the best possible conditions for wine tasting. At L’Atelier du Vin, our designers and engineers work together every year to create new tools and refine previous models. Our goal is to provide wine accessories that are both ergonomic and visually appealing, and as easy to use as they are pleasing to the senses.

A Geographical and Chronological Account of the Corkscrew in the West in the 17^th and 18^th Century by Marc Ouvrard

Marc Ouvrard’s book, “Le tire-bouchon aux XVIIe et XVIIIe siècles – Chrono-géographie d’une révolution en Occident,” is a remarkable account of the history of the corkscrew, from its invention around 1630 to the first official patent application in 1795 by Samuel Henshall. As the president of the renowned French Corkscrew Club (CFTB) and an expert in the field of wine, Ouvrard takes the reader on a fascinating journey in search of the first historical and geographical evidence of this legendary wine tool. Drawing on a wide range of sources, including travel journals, court songs, paintings, and old dictionaries, he traces the corkscrew’s origins and evolution over time. Ouvrard’s work is essential reading for anyone interested in the history of wine and the tools used to open it.

From the Restoration of Old Corkscrews to the Creation of Contemporary Wine Tools

Our continuous communication with the individuals of the wine industry including winegrowers, merchants, collectors, sommeliers, and oenologists worldwide allows us to discover exceptional collector’s items. The corkscrews that were once ordinary have developed into remarkable tools over time, exhibiting exceptional design. Each discovery is a precious gem, showcasing original opening mechanisms, unique materials, and intricate details with refined finishing. We cherish each find with utmost care.

The Pleasure of Giving New Life to Vintage Corkscrews

L’Atelier du Vin employs an ancient savoir-faire to restore old corkscrews and give them a new life. Our master craftsmen carefully renovate each bottle opener, which includes polishing and sanding, repairing the opening mechanism, and replacing the handle, all while maintaining the original character of the corkscrew. We deeply respect the authenticity of each model and never alter it in any way during the restoration process.

An Endless Source of Inspiration to Create Contemporary Bottle Openers

L’Atelier du Vin draws inspiration from antique bottle openers that have proven themselves to be robust and ergonomic in order to create new models of corkscrews that are both timeless and reliable. Each year, we refine and innovate the visual and technical aspects of our wine tool collection, striving for the perfect balance between beauty and function. The simplicity of use and smoothness with which the mechanism opens the bottle reveal the beauty of a rare corkscrew. This has been demonstrated by numerous generations of bottle openers, allowing us to explore different methods of extracting a cork throughout the ages, culminating in the present day with clever designs and efficient mechanism

The post L’Atelier du Vin, a Nearly 100-Year-Old Passion for Corkscrews appeared first on L’Atelier du Vin.

Sturdy and Well-Crafted: Genuine Leather Wine Tool Cases, Handmade in Italy

The Nomad collection by L’Atelier du Vin is an ideal travel companion for wine lovers who want to experience the art of wine appreciation wherever they go. This limited edition collection features custom-made, handcrafted leather cases from Italy that securely hold corkscrews, foil cutters, pourers, pliers, and champagne corks.

Once opened, the Nomad case unveils a selection of wine tools that are ready to use, whether on a wine cellar counter, a table, a craftsman’s workbench, or even on a rock in the middle of nature. These exceptional Italian-made bottle opening kits are essential for any wine explorer, fitting perfectly into luggage or an oenology tool drawer.

Genuine Leather to Protect your Wine Accessories

Genuine leather is a truly noble material, with a thick and supple hide that offers both durability and elegance. Our Italian design partners and skilled artisans share our passion for quality and exquisite craftsmanship, handcrafting each piece with meticulous attention to detail.

The raw, untreated exterior of the leather case is designed to withstand the test of time and accompany you on your travels to the world’s vineyards, protecting your wine tools from dust, inclement weather, and potential impacts.

The smooth, vibrant leather lining adds an element of surprise and delight when you unveil your wine accessories, complete with a hand-sewn finish that exudes sophistication and refinement.

A Minimal and Functional Design by Margherita Matticari

The Nomad collection merges the practicality of a traditional craftsman’s tool kit with the elegance of a leather travel pouch. Our wine tool cases are known for their simplistic yet functional design, which is not only pleasing to the eye but also to the touch.

Under the direction of designer Margherita Matticari, the concept of “functional minimalism” is expertly executed with the use of raw materials and the unique craftsmanship of Italian artisans. This creates a pure and simple design, where function and beauty come together to represent a timeless sense of refinement.

Our handmade corkscrew cases provide excellent protection for your wine accessories while remaining easy to store and transport. They are ideal for serving both red and white wines, as well as champagne. The case’s strap keeps each bottle opener in place, ready for the next bottle to be opened.

The Nomad Collection Wine Tool Kits

The Nomad collection is a limited edition, so act fast if you want to get your hands on your own wine tool case or gift one to someone special. These kits come with a selection of L’Atelier du Vin’s best corkscrews, while the Oeno Nomad collection has everything you need to enjoy a glass of red, white, sparkling wine, or vintage champagne.

Oeno Motion Nomad

The Oeno Motion Nomad case offers a secure home for the chromed metal Oeno Motion Wood & Chrome vertical lever corkscrew, featuring a solid walnut handle, concealed beneath the thick leather. This intuitive and durable wine tool requires only a simple lever push to open any cork. With the Oeno Motion Nomad case, this tool is carefully shielded, providing added protection for any situation.

Soft Machine Nomad

The Soft Machine Nomad case, made of genuine leather, is a perfect match for the Soft Machine Dandy corkscrew with its curvaceous design. The acetate and brass embellishments of the corkscrew give it a natural charm that is beautifully highlighted in this elegantly hand-finished pouch. The simple and sophisticated lines of the case complement the Soft Machine Dandy corkscrew, making it a must-have accessory for any wine enthusiast.

Bilame Nomad

The Bilame Nomad case is a nod to the sheath of a winegrower’s knife, perfectly designed to cradle the original form of the legendary Bilame corkscrew, patented by L’Atelier du Vin. The Bilame’s unique ability to extract and reposition the cork without piercing it makes it the ideal tool for opening delicate vintages and precious wines, before being gently placed back into its protective case.

Oeno Collection Nomad

Inside the Oeno Collection Nomad wine tool kit, you’ll find a collection of exquisite wine accessories that make for a true oenological treasure:

• Garçon corkscrew
• Bilame corkscrew
• Foil cutter
• Pourer Leaf
• The Cork Opener
• Stopper for sparkling wines ; Model 54

Crafted from premium, genuine leather, the kit features six carefully hand-sewn sections that provide tailor-made storage for each wine accessory. With secure fastening straps and snap buttons, the Nomad wine kit evokes the feeling of a craftsman’s apron, complete with a pocket for every working tool. Perfect for traveling wine lovers and collectors alike, this wine toolbox and pouch is a true must-have.

Discover the Nomad Collection’s video

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Summary:

• Why should you decant wine?
  • What does decanting wine mean?
  • What does decanting do to the wine?
  • When should you decant a wine?
• How do you decant a bottle of wine?
  • What steps are involved in decanting wine?
  • What tool do you need to decant wine?
  • How long should wine be aerated after being decanted into a decanter?
• How do you use a wine decanter?
  • Using a decanter to decant wine
  • Using a decanter to aerate wine
  • What does double decanting mean?
  • How do you clean a decanter?
• What wines should you decant and aerate?

Why should you decant wine?

When a bottle of wine has been aged in a wine cellar, it may develop tannic residues that can spoil its flavor when served. To prevent this, decanting the wine after opening the bottle is crucial in separating the liquid from any solid sediments that may have formed. Thus, decanting wine becomes necessary to ensure the wine’s taste remains unaffected.

What does decanting wine mean?

To remove impurities from a bottle of wine, one must pour off the clear liquid. This act of separating the wine from its sediments, which are the heavy, tannic substances that accumulate at the bottom of the bottle over time, is called decanting. By decanting, the wine in your glass is free from any sediments, resulting in a smoother taste.

The verb “decant” derives from the Latin word “canthus,” which means the lip of an alchemist’s crucible. Decanting involves pouring wine from the spout of the bottle into the neck of the decanter or tasting glass, allowing only the clear and pure liquid to pass through while leaving any sediments that have formed during the wine’s aging process behind.

It’s important not to mistake decanting with aeration. Within the field of oenology, these are two separate processes, even though they may both involve using a wine decanter. For instance, an older vintage wine can be decanted to remove its sediments, but aerating it could permanently disrupt the balance of its aromas, and so it should be avoided.

What does decanting do to the wine?

The primary effect of decanting wine is to remove the sediments that may have formed in the bottle over time. When a vintage’s aromatic bouquet is stifled by the solid body of its tannins, decanting frees it from its inert state, allowing it to recover its vigor and enabling its aromas to express themselves in all their finesse.

Additionally, the decanting process has an oxygenating effect on the wine when it is transferred from the bottle to the decanter or carafe. This stage is crucial, as any unpleasant odors that may have passed through the cork can quickly evaporate. When done with care and a delicate touch, decanting should gently awaken the wine and rid it of any impurities that may have accumulated during its extended rest.

When should you decant a wine?

Decanting becomes an essential step in the wine-tasting process when a bottle of wine has matured in a wine cellar and sediment has formed inside. Before decanting a vintage wine, it’s important to gently raise the bottle to an upright position and let it stand for at least a few hours. This allows most of the sediment to sink to the bottom of the bottle, as far away from the neck as possible, making it easier to keep the sediment inside the bottle while slowly pouring the wine into the decanter.

How do you decant a bottle of wine?

To fully appreciate a beautiful mature vintage, it is crucial to have the knowledge and skills to properly decant your wine in accordance with the principles of oenology. Decanting is a delicate process that requires the use of appropriate tools and a comprehensive understanding of the best practices in order to achieve the desired results.

What steps are involved in decanting wine?

To decant wine that has sediment, a wine decanter can be used by following these steps:

1. Gently lift the wine bottle and stand it upright for 12 to 24 hours before opening, allowing the sediment to settle at the bottom of the bottle.
2. Cut the foil, open the bottle and wipe the neck. Let the wine breathe naturally in the wine cellar for a few hours, allowing the sediment to further settle at the bottom of the bottle.
3. Place a candle on the table and light it, positioning it close to the decanter. The candle’s soft light will help in monitoring the sediment through the bottle’s glass while pouring it into the decanter.
4. Carefully and gently pour the wine into the decanter, slowing down gradually as you approach the sediment at the bottom of the bottle. Stop pouring when the sediment approaches the neck to keep it trapped inside the bottle.
5. For wines that are sensitive to oxygenation, it is advisable to use a decanter with a stopper, without a cheesecloth, to limit the wine’s exposure to air. If you use such a decanter, close it immediately after pouring the wine.
6. The wine is now decanted. You can either serve it or let it aerate in the decanter before tasting, depending on the wine’s age and type.

When dealing with very old and delicate wines, the act of pouring the wine into a decanter can be too rough and aeration can cause irreparable damage. In these situations, you can follow the first two steps of the decanting process and then skip the decanter altogether, instead pouring the wine directly into your tasting glasses. In this case, the decanting process depends solely on the technique of pouring the wine carefully to avoid any sediment ending up in your glass. A wine pourer can be particularly helpful in these circumstances.

What tool do you need to decant wine?

To decant wine, the main equipment required is a wine decanter, which is primarily used for aerating the wine. However, you can also use a Universal Developer in conjunction with the decanter, placed at the opening of the decanter or glass to initiate the aeration process.

Though less common, additional accessories such as wine pourers and decanting glasses are also available. Once the wine has been decanted, the patented Exploreur Oenologie glass created by L’Atelier du Vin can be used to enhance its flavor. The glass contains an Aroma line in its wall that brings out the wine’s full range of flavors.

How long should wine be aerated in a decanter before serving?

Decanting and aeration can enhance the flavors of young and mature wines if done correctly.

• For a wine that is less than 5 years old, decanting is optional but can be followed by up to 4 hours of aeration in a decanter, helping to soften any overpowering flavors and develop the wine’s body.
• If the wine is aged between 6 and 10 years, it should be decanted and allowed to breathe for 1 to 2 hours in a wine decanter before serving.
• When dealing with older wines over 10 years old, decanting should be approached with great care and not be over-aerated as this could cause the wine to lose its aromas and ruin its quality.

How do you use a wine decanter?

The purpose of using a decanter can vary depending on how it is used and how the wine is poured into it. Decanting wine involves separating it from impurities, while aerating wine involves letting it breathe for a certain amount of time before consumption. Therefore, pouring wine into a decanter can serve different purposes, such as simply transferring it into a different vessel for serving. To further enhance its performance, various accessories such as decanter stoppers and cheesecloths can be used.

Using a decanter to decant wine

To ensure that only the wine free from impurities is poured into the decanter during the decanting process, it is essential to pour the wine slowly and carefully. The primary goal is to prevent the sediment from escaping into the decanter. When approaching the sediment, the pouring speed should be reduced even further, and the bottle should be lifted before any sediment reaches the neck to avoid it from getting into the decanter.

For extra protection, a cheesecloth can be placed over the neck of the decanter to prevent even the tiniest amount of sediment from passing through. Additionally, using a decanter with a stopper can be advantageous, particularly for delicate wines, to prevent excessive oxidation caused by prolonged exposure to air. The wine’s delicate flavors are easily affected by over-oxidation, and a stopper limits the wine’s exposure to the air, preventing this issue.

Using a decanter to aerate wine

If you simply want to aerate a young wine, you can pour it directly into your decanter without decanting it. As the wine hits the clear surface of the decanter, its liveliness is accentuated. The wine’s vigorous personality gradually mellows down, taking a breather as it rests in the airy environment for a few hours. Once you taste the wine, you will be greeted with a delightful display of scents and tastes on both the nose and the tongue.

What does double decanting mean?

To salvage a decanter that has been contaminated with impurities, the double decanting technique can be used. Initially, wash and dry the original bottle, where most of the sediment has been collected. Next, pour the wine slowly from the decanter back into the original bottle, definitively separating the wine’s nectar from any last traces of unwanted sediment. It’s crucial to avoid repeating the double decanting process, as over-decanting may pose a risk to your valuable beverage.

How do you clean a decanter?

To achieve the best possible results when using a decanter, it is essential to ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned and purified beforehand. Using water, rinse the decanter generously and with vigor to eliminate any remnants or deposits of previous wine. It is advisable to avoid using soap as it may leave behind chemicals that could damage the aroma of the wine. To clean a wine decanter, you can utilize a microfiber cloth, or specialized ceramic washing balls. Finally, a decanter dryer rack can be utilized to allow for the decanter to dry upside down completely.

What wines should you decant and aerate?

Not all wines benefit from decanting. If a bottle contains no sediment, decanting is unnecessary. However, young wines may benefit from decanting to allow for aeration.

Decanting can be especially beneficial for exceptional red wine vintages with robust tannins and complex flavors, which are more likely to form sediment as they age. It is important to decant these wines carefully, without exposing them to excessive oxygen.

In general, the decanting process is highly recommended for great wines from Bordeaux, the Rhone Valley, Madiran, and old Cahors vintages. However, for fragile red wines that have weakened due to old age, it’s not advisable to decant them even if using a stopper. Additionally, young and fruity wines can benefit from aeration in a decanter to enhance their flavor and aroma, but if they have no impurities and are light in color, decanting is not necessary.

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A wine tasting glass is always a safe bet

L’Atelier du Vin, with its century of expertise, knows that a great wine deserves a vessel that can truly reveal its essence to the palate. That’s why we created the Exploreur Oenologie, a unique tasting glass that brings out the wine’s full potential. So, what sets it apart?

This exceptional wine tasting glass is a technical masterpiece, crafted with an Aroma line that distinguishes it from other glasses. As your wine comes into contact with this unique vein on the glass’s wall, it fully releases its aromas and flavors. The inlaid micro-beads help you fill the glass to the perfect level for the ideal tasting experience. The Exploreur Oenologie is the perfect wine gift idea for everyone, from novice tasters to experienced connoisseurs.

A wine decanter—a must-have wine gift

An essential part of a wine and oenology kit, a wine decanter illuminates the room as soon as it is placed on the table. With grace and generosity, a decanter offers the lucky few a radiant, ethereal display as the wine flows along its crystalline walls. A must-have piece of wine tasting equipment, a decanter can be used to aerate a younger wine or let an older wine that has been aged to maturity breathe by increasing the surface area in contact with the air.

The vessels of choice of alchemist wine-producers, L’Atelier du Vin’s wine decanters are hand-blown from high-quality glass. With a range of styles offering open necks or colored stoppers, classic or original silhouettes, smooth or ribbed walls—each decanter in our oenology collection is unique. Whichever model you choose, a wine decanter is always the perfect gift idea for a wine lover who enjoys tasting good bottles of red or white wine.

A wine stopper or a vacuum pump makes the perfect practical gift

Preserving the aroma of an opened bottle of wine is essential, and a vacuum pump or wine stopper is the solution. Our oenology accessory range features the Gard’Vin pair, a stylish and practical wine gift that comes in handy on any occasion. Simply turn on the pump to suck the air out of the bottle, and the On/Off cap’s indicator confirms when the bottle has been sealed hermetically. With oxidation halted, you can rest easy until the next tasting occasion without any unpleasant surprises.

The ultimate wine gift idea—the oenology gift box

If you are seeking a refined and sophisticated present for a wine enthusiast eager to delve deeper into the world of oenology, a gift box containing specialist wine tools is an excellent choice. L’Atelier du Vin offers a wide range of wine accessory gift boxes, including corkscrew collections, wine accessory sets, Sommelier’s sets, waiter’s sets, and oenologist’s box sets. These gift boxes showcase our expertise and passion for wine, combining the functionality and ease of use of each tool to provide an extraordinary wine-tasting experience.

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The Twin-blade wine opener removes corks effortlessly by inserting 2 “spring steel” blades attached to a handle between the cork and the bottle’s neck, and then pulling and turning the blades and the cork together, without damaging the cork. Even old and fragile corks can be removed without crumbling. Additionally, it can be used to re-cork an opened bottle. According to legend, the Twin-blade was a favorite among waiters who would use it to sneak a small serving from bottles and then re-cork them without leaving any trace of the break-in.

Charles Pégé patented the device on July 1st, 1887. L’Atelier du Vin, (the Sanbri Company), followed with their own patents for “improvements on a bladed corkscrew” on May 13th, 1949 and April 6th, 1954. The Twin-blade, manufactured in France in large quantities, has become a highly valued tool among wine lovers and those interested in mastering the art of extracting a cork without piercing it with a corkscrew.

The post The Twin-blade: an atypical corkscrew with a history appeared first on L’Atelier du Vin.