Bordeaux, surely the world’s most revered wine region, has a rich history intertwined with the development of one of the most essential tools in the wine world: the corkscrew. This modest invention has played a crucial role in the preservation and enjoyment of wine, and its evolution is particularly significant to Bordeaux’s wine culture. However, the story of the corkscrew begins in 1795 with an Englishman: Reverend Samuel Henshall, a clergyman from Cheshire, England, who became the first person to patent the corkscrew.
Reverend Samuel Henshall, born in Cheshire, is credited with creating the first patented corkscrew in 1795. At the time, the need for a tool to remove corks had become more pressing as cork had firmly established itself as the preferred seal for wine bottles. Before corks were widely adopted, wine bottles were sealed with oil-soaked rags, wax, or wooden stoppers. But as glass bottles with narrow necks became more common, corks became the superior method for sealing bottles.
Henshall’s innovation lay in adding a crucial element to the basic corkscrew design: a disc or "button" at the top of the helix (the screw-shaped metal piece). This disc rested on the cork and prevented the user from driving the screw too deep into the cork. More importantly, it allowed for the application of extra torque, making it easier to twist and remove the cork. This seemingly simple adjustment significantly improved the functionality of the corkscrew, making it a more efficient tool for wine drinkers and allowing them to preserve the cork for future use if needed.
Henshall’s corkscrew became popular in both Britain and France, especially as wine consumption grew in the 19th century. His design laid the foundation for many subsequent variations, including those that incorporated levers, hinges, and mechanical aids.
As wine production increased in Bordeaux during the 19th century, corkscrews became indispensable for opening bottles. Bordeaux's vineyards were thriving, wine exports were at an all-time high, spreading the need for corkscrews across Europe and beyond. As the market for wine expanded, so too did the demand for reliable cork removal tools.
Wine bottles sealed with cork became the norm, and the corkscrew saw rapid evolution in both design and efficiency.
During this period, various inventors contributed to refining Henshall’s original design, adding features such as the lever and the double-hinged mechanism. These innovations made cork extraction easier and less labor-intensive, perfect for an era when Bordeaux wines were gaining international fame. One of the most notable evolutions of the corkscrew in this time was the development of the "sommelier knife" (or waiter's friend), which combined a corkscrew with a small knife for cutting foil and a lever for pulling the cork. This design is still widely used by professionals today, especially in wine-rich regions like Bordeaux.
In Bordeaux, the corkscrew is more than just a practical tool; it is a symbol of the region’s deep connection to wine culture. Bordeaux, widely regarded as the premier wine-growing region in the world, boasts a heritage of producing some of the finest and most sought-after wines. The act of opening a bottle of Bordeaux wine is often seen as a ritual, where the corkscrew plays a starring role. Whether at prestigious wine festivals, intimate tastings at wine bars, or within the walls of Bordeaux’s iconic châteaux, the corkscrew is the key to unlocking the flavors and aromas of these celebrated wines.While the basic corkscrew design remained largely unchanged for over a century, modern times have seen some innovations.
Electric corkscrews and air pressure cork removers have made the process even easier, though many traditionalists in Bordeaux still prefer the classic corkscrew, viewing it as part of the wine experience. The enduring appeal of the corkscrew is a testament to its simple yet effective design, which dates back to Henshall’s 1795 patent.
In Bordeaux today, the corkscrew continues to hold a place of honor. Whether traditional or modern, it symbolizes the region’s centuries-long commitment to winemaking and the enjoyment of wine. As Bordeaux continues to produce world-class wines, the corkscrew remains an indispensable companion, a small but mighty tool that celebrates the heritage, craft, and culture of wine in the region.
Samuel Henshall’s contribution to the world of wine through his invention of the corkscrew remains an often-overlooked but pivotal moment in wine history. His simple yet ingenious design changed the way wine was consumed, and its subsequent evolution paralleled Bordeaux’s rise as a global wine powerhouse. Today, both Bordeaux wines and the corkscrew hold a central place in wine culture, representing tradition, craftsmanship, and the joy of wine.
