6 essential accessories for opening, serving and storage
Whether you're a casual wine lover or a connoisseur, having the right tools can enhance your wine experience. We've selected six essential accessories for opening, serving and storing wine:
1. The corkscrew
A corkscrew is absolutely essential for opening a bottle of wine! Corkscrews range in price from the simplest to the most complex models. Among the easiest to use are the "sommelier" corkscrew and the "Screwpull". The sommelier corkscrew features a lever that makes cork extraction easy, while the Screwpull uses a twisting motion to extract the cork effortlessly. Whichever type you choose, a good corkscrew will enable you to open your bottles with ease and precision.
2. The decanter
A decanter is crucial for aerating young wines and decanting old vintages. Aeration helps release the wine's aromas and flavors, while decanting separates the sediment from the wine. The most basic and commonly used decanter is the bistro model, with a capacity of around one liter. It is generally made of glass and has a wide base to allow maximum exposure to the air. For more elegant or complex wines, consider investing in a decanter with a more sophisticated design to further enhance the wine's flavors.
3. The Wine Bucket
A wine bucket is particularly useful during the summer months. It helps to cool or maintain the temperature of your wine. The best-known model is the plastic bucket with insulating walls, similar to a Thermos bottle. This type of bucket keeps your wine at the ideal temperature, whether you're chilling a bottle of white wine or maintaining the serving temperature of a red.
4. The cork
It's not unusual to have wine left over after a meal. In this case, a cork is essential to preserve the remaining wine. To optimize wine preservation, you can use air pumps that come with stoppers. These devices remove air from the bottle, helping to prevent oxidation and spoilage. With a vacuum pump, you can keep your wine fresh for several days, allowing you to enjoy it at your own pace.
5. Thermometer / Hygrometer
A thermometer/hygrometer is essential for monitoring temperature and humidity levels in your wine cellar. This instrument helps you keep track of changing conditions, which is crucial to maintaining optimal storage conditions for your wine. Proper temperature and humidity control is essential to preserve the quality of your wine over time.
6. The Wine Thermometer
A wine thermometer is a handy tool for ensuring that your wine is served at the correct temperature. Simply dip the thermometer into the wine, and it will provide an almost instantaneous reading of the wine's temperature. There are also electronic versions with sensors for fast, accurate measurements. This accessory ensures that your wine is always served at the perfect temperature, enhancing its flavors and aromas.
With these six essential accessories at your disposal, you'll be well equipped to enjoy your wine to the full, from opening and serving to proper storage. Each tool plays a crucial role in ensuring that every bottle of wine is presented and stored with care, allowing you to enjoy every sip at its very best.