Chateau Laguiole Corkscrew Review

Handmade by artisans in Thiers, France, the authentic Chateau Laguiole corkscrew is a beautifully crafted piece. These are undoubtedly the highest-quality handheld corkscrews in the world, and are backed with a lifetime warranty. As durable as they are beautiful, the Chateau Laguiole is truly the "Rolls Royce" of wine openers.

Because the name "Laguiole" isn't copyrighted, there are several lower-priced versions available across the price spectrum (almost all of which are excellent corkscrews), however, an authentic Chateau Laguiole corkscrew has a trademark at the base of the boot lever. Another way to help identify an authentic Chateau Laguiole corkscrew is the ornamental steel used in the spine of the corkscrew, and the distinctive "Bee Emblem" made famous by Napolean (the "Bee Emblem" was used to demote high quality). All new Chateau Laguiole corkscrews come with a leather pouch - if it's advertised as new and there isn't a pouch, you're probably looking at a knockoff version.

Made with various exotic horns, woods, or bones, (there's also a chrome and a stainless steel model) the handle of the Chateau Laguiole corkscrew is sleek and curved perfectly for use. With nominal care the handle will maintain it's finish, and over time, most of the exotic woods will develop a rich patina.

With the high quality comes a high price tag. The "basic" black horn or olive wood handled versions of the Chateau Laguiole retail between US$90 - $115, and some of the exotic horn or bone models are priced upwards of US$300. There are occasionally used models offered for sale on some of the more popular auction websites, however, these may have scratches, etc. that will certainly lower the overall value. If you purchase a Chateau Laguiole from an auction site, you are certainly urged to "look before you leap" into the bidding. There are (unfortunately) many unscrupulous dealers who will intentionally mislead you into thinking you are buying an authentic Chateau Laguiole, when in fact, you are probably buying a corkscrew made in China. If the deal seems to good to be true, it probably is!

Used by the top sommeliers around the world, the Chateau Laguiole corkscrew will make a wonderfully unique gift for any wine lover that will last a lifetime.