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2 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CORKSCREWS

352 Views Posted on: 2024-06-11
 

Exploring the Origins of Wine Accessories

We are delving into the fascinating world of wine accessories by examining their origins. Let's start with an indispensable wine tool: the corkscrew.

1. Where Did the Corkscrew Come From?

Most people probably assume that the corkscrew is a purely French invention. However, its origins are actually British. The first patent for a corkscrew was filed in 1795 by the English Reverend Samuel Henshall, who invented a T-shaped screw and nut version (see image below). While this does not make him the inventor of the corkscrew (whose true origins remain unknown), historical evidence strongly supports the theory that the corkscrew was born in England.

2. Why Is It Nicknamed "General de Gaulle"?

"Do you have a General de Gaulle so I can open the bottle?" This somewhat strange question might sound familiar to some. In reality, a "General de Gaulle" refers to a corkscrew with a head and two large levers (or arms) as shown in the image above. The resemblance to a "little man" is quite apparent. The connection to Charles de Gaulle stems from the General's habit of raising his arms during public speeches, much like when he famously declared "I have understood you" in Algiers on June 4, 1958.