Does Coravin really work?

Answered by Joseph Earl

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to try out the Coravin preservation system and I must say, it really does work. The concept behind the Coravin is quite simple yet ingenious – it allows you to sample a glass or two of wine from a bottle without removing the cork, thus preventing any oxidation that would spoil the rest of the wine.

One of the key advantages of the Coravin is its ease of use once you get the hang of it. The system consists of a device that pierces the cork with a thin needle and injects inert gas, such as carbon dioxide, into the bottle. This gas creates a pressure that pushes the wine out through the needle and into your glass. The needle is designed to be thin enough to not damage the cork, ensuring that the remaining wine in the bottle continues to be protected.

I have found that the Coravin works almost perfectly in preserving the remaining wine in the bottle. The wine that I have accessed using the system has remained fresh and vibrant, even after several weeks or even months. This is particularly useful when you have a special bottle of wine that you want to savor over time, without having to finish the entire bottle in one sitting.

One aspect that I appreciate about the Coravin system is that it uses carbon dioxide as the preservation gas, which is cheaper than the argon gas commonly used for preserving still wines. This makes it a more cost-effective option for wine enthusiasts who want to enjoy their wines over a longer period.

However, it is important to note that the Coravin system does require a bit of practice to use effectively. Initially, I found it a bit tricky to pierce the cork without any resistance, but with a few attempts, I was able to master the technique. It is also important to ensure that the bottle is kept in an upright position while using the Coravin to prevent any leakage.

In my experience, the Coravin system has been a game-changer in the wine industry. It allows wine lovers to explore and enjoy a variety of wines without the fear of wasting the rest of the bottle. Personally, I have used it to sample different wines for tasting events and it has never let me down.

The Coravin wine preservation system is a reliable and efficient tool for preserving opened bottles of wine. It is easy to use, cost-effective, and delivers on its promise of preserving the quality and freshness of the wine. Whether you are a wine enthusiast, a sommelier, or simply someone who enjoys the occasional glass of wine, the Coravin is definitely worth considering.