When I got home and I realized that I couldn’t enjoy the bottle, I got my thinking cap on. I went off to the tool shed looking for inspiration. I had my camera with me and I made these pictures to help other desperate wine drinkers. Enjoy !

Tools to open a bottle of Wine without an opener

You will need:

• A 2″ or longer screw
• A screwdriver
• A claw hammer
• a nice bottle of red wine

Step 1 : Twist the Screw into the bottle

First try by hand to put the screw into the cork, then use the screwdriver until it is at least 1.5″ into the cork.

This will insure that the when you pull the screw out later (wait for it) that  whole cork will come out in one clean pull.

Step 2 : Place the Hammer under the screw

Put the claw end of the hammer under the screw, right up to the top of the hammer.

Step 3: Yank the screw away from the bottle

Pull back on the screw, place the bottle between your legs if necessary for extra stability.

Step 4: Enjoy the wine.

Have a glass and pat yourself on the back for being determined !

If this wine tips is helpful for you, do let me know !

Wines for a formal dinner

For a formal dinner, I would recommend a full bodied wine. This can be something along the lines of a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Reserv&ecute; wines. You want something that you will drink slowly and has a complexity to the taste. I quite like Evil Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, yes that’s the name, this would be very suiting and a great conversation point if your boss is hosting the formal dinner.

Wines for a summer picnic

This time you would want something quite the opposite, go for a lighter wine. Something that you won’t feel too full while drinking. Again you are probably looking for a refreshing wine, and typically these will have lower alcoholic values. You could try a Belmuscato wine (Whitehall Lane 2005 Belmuscato is great) or you could go for a Sauvignon Blanc (2007 Richmond Plains Sauvignon Blanc Wine (Nelson, NZ)).

Wines for a Birthday

For birthdays it’s usually safe to go with a sparkling wine, or even a champagne. We are quite partial to Bollinger Special Cuvee or Moet & Chandon Champagne White Star. Some of these come in larger sizes which would be ideal for a bigger party. Ask your wine stockist for either a Magnum or a Jeroboam. If you are looking for a dry champagne then maybe consider Veuve Clicquot Champagne Brut.

Wines for a Barbecue / BBQ

As the summer is fast approaching I decided to add some recommendations for wines that go well when you are attending a BBQ. Remember that you will need something that is fruity and spicy, to go with grilled meats. The two best types of wines that go with the ‘char’ flavor would be a Zinfandel or one of the Rhone reds (2006 Domaine Paul Autard French – Rhone (Red Blend) “Côtes du Rhone” for about $15 is good). This goes great with those vegetables and meats straight off the grill. More reading about BBQ wines can be seen here.

Your special occasion

Do you have a particular wine that goes well with a special occasion ? Drop us a comment at the end of this and let us know