Cork Unblocking
A clogged cork can make it nearly impossible to use your favorite bottle of wine, and it's not something that should be ignored. Fortunately, there are several simple ways you can unclog your cork. The first step is to remove the cork from the bottle and wipe down the inner and outer joints. Then, use a small wooden stick, a round toothpick, or the tip of a Q-Tip(r) to apply a tiny amount of silicone grease to both joints. This is the same type of grease that is used to lubricate moving parts, and it should be applied sparingly, so as not to smother the joint and prevent the seal from resealing.
Once the joints are oiled, it's time to insert your cork again. Be sure to place the cork on the bottle securely, and then apply a light coat of silicone grease to both the outside and inside of the cork joint. You should be able to hear the gas flowing through the bottle when it's properly inserted. If you don't hear the gas flow, it could be that your needle is clogged with bits of cork, so follow the instructions for clearing a clogged needle to clear out the piece of cork and try again.
Cork Unblocking
While it may be tempting to smash your clogged cork with a wooden spoon, it's best to avoid this method, as it can cause the glass to shatter. Instead, grab a blowtorch or powerful lighter and heat the spot on the neck of your bottle right below the cork. Then spin the bottle to apply heat evenly, which should help force the cork upward and out of the bottle.
Another way to pop a Debouchage liege stubborn cork is to place a rag over the top of the bottle and then smack it with a rolling pin, much like you would with a towel. This can work quickly, but be careful not to use too much force or you could end up cracking your bottle of wine.
Lastly, you can also unclog your cork using a bicycle pump. This works best with a bike pump that has a needle attachment, and it's usually easier to use than a regular air compressor. Just plunge the needle into the cork, start pumping air, and watch the cork come out of the bottle.
The three different types of Coravin needles are designed to access a wide variety of corks and bottles. The Faster Pour needle is perfect for most everyday use, the Vintage needle has a narrower gauge that's ideal for older bottles or fragile corks, and the Standard Needle is made to withstand frequent use. If you're finding yourself unable to get your Coravin needle to do what it's supposed to, it may be time to replace it. But if you take care of your needle, it should last for years to come. Just like a bicycle, a properly maintained needle is much less likely to break down.
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