Butlers Thief Cork Remover

Description

The Butler’s Thief Cork Remover is a two-pronged device designed to remove a natural cork from a bottle in one piece. It works very well for opening old bottles of Port or wine.

Why should you use a Butlers Thief Cork Remover?

High-quality natural corks used in fine wines and Vintage Ports designed for long-term cellaring are often longer than corks used in cheaper wines. However; they still become very fragile and crumbly when they get old. Using a traditional corkscrew on an old cork can often cause the cork to crumble and break, making the bottle of wine difficult to open. A corkscrew can also push an old cork further into the bottle.

How to use a Butlers Thief Cork Remover

The Butler’s Thief Cork Remover consists of two prongs, one slightly longer than the other. Start by sliding the longer prong down between the cork and the bottle to remove a cork. Next, insert the shorter prong down the opposite side of the bottle and the cork. Next, gently wiggle the Butlers Thief whilst lightly pushing both prongs down until the top of the opener rests against the cork. Once both prongs are down as far as possible, twist the handle and pull upwards. Fingers crossed, the cork should come out in one piece between the prongs. With a bit of practice, it is remarkably easy.

Why Is It Called A Butler’s Thief?

The name derives from the fact that a not-so-scrupulous butler or wine waiter could easily take the cork out of his boss or customer’s wine bottles in one piece, drink some, or all of the contents, and replace them with some much cheaper liquid. The cork could then be put back in the bottle in one piece, leaving unsuspecting diners none the wiser.

These nifty cork removers are also known as a Butlers Friend or Ah-So cork removers. This one comes with a plastic prong sheath and is made in Italy by Ghidini, kitchen utensil specialists.

If you have successfully removed your fragile cork, you might need to read my “How to Decant Port” guide next!