What Is a Muselet?

A “muselet” is the wire cage that fits over the cork of a bottle of sparkling wine. Normally covered by a foil capsule, this small but crucial element secures the cork in the bottle, keeping it sealed to the point of drinking. 

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the muselet is made up of three parts: a lower ring, four separate wire legs, and a metal circular plaque. Its intricate design often displays the winery’s logo, emblem, or distinctive pattern. 

The muselet’s elegant and efficient detail embodies both tradition and function, contributing to the overall experience of enjoying sparkling wines. It’s a little cap with a lot of personality!

History

The muselet’s story can be traced back to the Champagne region of France, where the production of sparkling wine gained prominence in the 17th century. Prior to the muselet, corks were secured using wooden stoppers tied down with twine. However, the pressure generated by secondary fermentation posed challenges, often leading to bottles bursting or corks being propelled out.

Over the years, the muselet design evolved, with different winemakers and regions incorporating their unique touches. As sparkling wine production expanded beyond Champagne and gained popularity worldwide, the muselet became an essential part of preserving the effervescence and quality of bubbly wines.

Unlock & Pop

Remember, opening a bottle of sparkling wine can be exciting, but it’s important to do it safely and carefully to avoid any accidents. When you are ready to pop your bubbly, the muselet becomes an integral part of the ritual. Use a sparkling wine opener (or towel) to get a good grasp on the cork. Without removing the cage, gently untwist and loosen the wire while keeping pressure on the top of the cork. Fun fact: the muselet always takes exactly six counterclockwise twists to remove by hand! 

To remove the cork, slowly turn the bottle with one hand while holding onto the cork or sparkling wine opener with the other hand. As the cork gets close to being fully released, you’ll hear a soft “pop” as the pressure inside the bottle forces the cork out. Now, it’s time to pour!

In the realm of sparkling wine, the muselet holds a dual role – a guardian of the iconic bubbles and a symbol of the joyous moments that await in every bottle. With each twist, the anticipation builds. So, what are you waiting for? Grab an ISC sparkler, unleash the bubbles, and let the celebration begin!