The instructions say not to use it with synthetic corks. Is it really a problem to do that? Thanks
1447954
I have not had a problem with synthetic corks, but have not encountered a lot of them
1447955
Synthetic corks are a problem with any wine opener. I find that, due to the lever, on the Brookstone it really pulls them out easier, but some of those things are a BEAR! Saying not to use it on synthetics is probably a disclaimer, because they will eventually stretch any corkscrew of this type, including the electric kind, that has the long, more open spiral, not like the old-school corkscrews, with the two arms , or a wine tool, that have a sturdier, tighter spiral corkscrew. This is why they sell the replacement units that are simple, and inexpensive to replace. The fact is that the lever itself is what makes it easy to remove those buggers! I have a Williams Sonoma one that is very similar that lasted 10 years before I replaced the spiral,, and I use it when I volunteer at my theatre's concession, opening MANY bottles a show, plus fundraisers and concerts and wine tastings as much as 30 nights a year, plus my own use. and there were some of those synthetic corks, that were nearly impossible to remove with anything...I think that is what finally stretched mine. The thing was still useable, but it didn't pull out as smoothly and easily, so I just replaced it, and it works like new. The Brookstone one seems to be a better made piece especially because of the lever handle. The corkscrew pieces themselves are readily available, so I think this opener is a good choice.
1447956
I have no problem with the synthetic. I never read the instructions, so I didn't know not to :-)
1447957
What on Earth are you talking about? I've checked the instructions, Brookstone's web site, and the promotional video, and they ALL say it can be used with "both synthetic and natural" corks. You've misread it.
1447958
We use it with synthetic corks. I'd say that as long as you don't have to put a lot of pressure on the handle you should have no problem.
2213305
Yes. Using a utility knife, carve out a hole big enough for the base of the air plant. Don't use dirt, the plant doesn't need it. Once a week you need to take it out of the cork and submerge it in water for about 20 to 30 minutes. I hope this helped!
600586
I gave up on the device. I had back ups but they were of no use. I was very disappointed and wrote the manufacturer but never heard back, so I gathered they didn't care to contact a disappointed customer. I went back to the old corkscrew. Good luck
1894414
No Idea about wine, but I have often used broth without any issues. I'm sure wine wouldn't be an issue either.
1545485
The cork is quite hard but it is tacky, giving you a good grip if your hands are sweaty. It is natural cork and not synthetic. It has metal tips on the ends of the grip to keep it from getting chewed up if the bike falls over. As far as hardness, there is no give in the cork. Hope this helps
900099
yes, they work very well with the plastic corks. I use it all the time on KJ
978926
Yes, it does. I've been able to open both regular and synthetic corks without any problems.
69755
If you can pick up a flashlight, then the Ozeri will pretty much be the same. You also need to be able to grip the bottle with the other handto keep it from rotating as the screw penetrates the cork. The cork remover will the eject the cork with a push of the button. I would say it would be much easier than using a regular cork screw.
175372
The cork crimper is made of a hard plastic. I bottled 25 bottles last week and it worked great. I suppose after time plastic deteriorates and could cause an issue.
1507545
it has worked great for us so far. all wine openers will leave pieces of cork in wine at times, if they go all the way through the cork. this opener so far has not done that, but i sure at some point it will. so far no issues with dried out corks. lots of wineries are switching to synthentic and other types of sealing. but it has worked on anything thrown at it so far.
610299
In general you don't want wine to sit - red past 2 days, white past 4. Top top works ok. It's not a vacuum seal or anything, but its easier than reinserting a cork. I've only used it for wine bottles...fitted for that size bottle neck/opening.
1508582
my daughter said she uses a little water to clean it. the cork is very thin. you need extra short tacks.
900100
Yes, the first cork I used it on was one of those rubbery composite corks. Worked great!
1483655
Technically you can use it to make wine. Thats what I bought it for as. The only problem is you will have to get a couple extra things. The capper it comes with is for capping beer bottles and wont do wine bottles. You can buy a wine corker, or just pound your corks in with a hammer and a piece of rod (or alternative). It also does not come with yeast (your going to want EC 1118 for wine/mead). I would replace the plastic bucket with another carboy ASAP and be really careful not to scratch the bucket until you do. This is because bacteria get in scratches and crevasses of plastic and are hard to kill. So clean well but also carefully. All that said, you can totally make wine with this kit. Technically you can use it to make wine. Thats what I bought it for as. The only problem is you will have to get a couple extra things. The capper it comes with is for capping beer bottles and wont do wine bottles. You can buy a wine corker, or just pound your corks in with a hammer and a piece of rod (or alternative). It also does not come with yeast (your going to want EC 1118 for wine/mead). I would replace the plastic bucket with another carboy ASAP and be really careful not to scratch the bucket until you do. This is because bacteria get in scratches and crevasses of plastic and are... » Read More Technically you can use it to make wine. Thats what I bought it for as. The only problem is you will have to get a couple extra things. The capper it comes with is for capping beer bottles and wont do wine bottles. You can buy a wine corker, or just pound your corks in with a hammer and a piece of rod (or alternative). It also does not come with yeast (your going to want EC 1118 for wine/mead). I would replace the plastic bucket with another carboy ASAP and be really careful not to scratch the bucket until you do. This is because bacteria get in scratches and crevasses of plastic and are hard to kill. So clean well but also carefully. All that said, you can totally make wine with this kit. « Show Less
433934
I too use the original cork and agree if you have to force the cork in then you are surely getting a secure fit. I have used silicone based bottle stoppers but like the original cork better.
978928
I have never found a problem with synthetic corks either. I found that when I place the opener on top of the cork, that I hold the opener steady with one hand and make sure the bottom of the unit does not slip as the corkscrew is inserted. I have bought four of these units. Just make sure you remember where you put the power cord for charging the unit. You don't need to charge it very often. I have had mine a year and I may have charged it three times. Enjoy!
1002787
I used these corks in the clear and cobalt blue wine bottles, BUT you will have to get one of those corkers to get them in, as they fit VERY tight. They do work though,, hope this helped a little.