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it survived for nearly twenty years as the Corkmaster. Although it undoubtedly suffered

from some bad press, in the end it was really a victim of corporate downsizing.

As with the air ejectors, the 1960s were the peak years for gas ejector patents. Sixty

percent of the 20

th

Century gas ejector patents were issued between 1960 and 1966.

And again there was silence. A revival in the 1980s beginning with two patents in Japan

followed by a little activity in the United States and Europe. Inventors took two

directions - some were using the "Sparklets" type CO2 cartridge while others were

using a refillable cartridge using a "food grade propellant." Survivors are the Wecomatic

in Germany and the Cork Pops in the United States.

Used properly, the ejectors really do work. I have tested many of them on a wide

variety of wines. I have not noticed any adverse affect on good Cabernets, Chardonnays,

Merlots, Pinot Noirs, or Pinot Grigios. I must say, however, that using the cork ejectors

offered no improvement in Thunderbird, Ripple, or Boone's Farm Apple Wine!

Using the ejectors, I have never pushed a cork into the bottle, had a bottle burst, or

experienced an uncontrolled ejection. Reports of any of these mishaps in the past are

likely due to misuse of the product. Yes, when the cork does not pop quickly, one has

the urge to inject more gas or rapidly increase the strokes on the air pump. But

patience can pay off. The first thing that has to happen is for the seal between the cork

and the bottle to break. There may be enough air or gas build-up in the bottle but the

seal may not be broken instantaneously.

Try a few strokes on the air pump and watch closely - you may see the cork rise before

your very eyes. If you can't wait, go ahead and take a few quick strokes on the air pump

- you will probably experience a loud pop and you'll experience that sudden ejection,

perhaps - uncontrolled.

Personally, I like them all but my preference is for the air type because all I have is the

initial cost. The gas type can be fast and efficient, but I have the added cost of

replacement cartridges. And guests enjoy that little "POP" announcing the wine is about

to be served.

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Note: The above represents the author's personal opinion. The author assumes no responsibility for damage to

property or harm to individuals through the use of cork ejectors.