Get That Stubborn Wine Corks Back in the Bottle – Use Wax Paper By Wine Aficionado and Founder of California Corks John Krause

Opening a bottle of wine is easy. Getting the cork back in? Not always. Whether you want to save a bottle for later or prevent spills, reinserting a swollen cork can be a frustrating experience. Fortunately, there’s a simple trick to make the process smooth and effortless—wax paper.

Why Won’t the Cork Fit Back In?

Natural cork expands once removed from a bottle. This happens because the compressed cork, which was originally squeezed into the bottle neck, absorbs air and moisture. As it swells, reinsertion becomes difficult, especially if the cork is slightly damaged. Forcing it back in can cause crumbling or splitting, making an even bigger mess.

The Wax Paper Hack

Wax paper acts as a lubricant and a barrier, helping the cork slide in smoothly without causing damage. The thin coating of wax reduces friction, allowing for a tight but manageable fit. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Wax Paper

1. Cut a Small Piece – Tear off a small square of wax paper, about 2 to 3 inches in length. It should be just enough to wrap around the cork without excessive overlap.

2. Wrap the Cork – Wrap the wax paper around the bottom half of the cork. Avoid overlapping too much, as this could make it too thick to slide in.

3. Gently Push the Cork Back In – Hold the bottle steady and slowly twist the cork as you push it back into the neck. The wax paper will help it glide smoothly without sticking.

4. Ensure a Snug Fit – Push until the cork is firmly in place, but don’t force it too hard. If there’s resistance, pull it out slightly and adjust before trying again.

Why Wax Paper Works

Wax paper is coated with a thin layer of paraffin or soybean wax, which makes it non-stick. Unlike plastic wrap or foil, it won’t tear or leave residue behind. It also provides just enough thickness to reduce friction while still allowing the cork to maintain a good seal.

Alternative Solutions

If you don’t have wax paper on hand, there are other ways to get the cork back in:

Use a Tapered Cork – Some reusable corks or stoppers are designed for easy reinsertion.
Chill the Cork – Placing the cork in the freezer for a few minutes can cause slight shrinkage, making it easier to slide in.
Invert and Use a Spoon – Placing the cork at an angle and using the back of a spoon to gently push it can sometimes work without wax paper.

Storing Wine Properly After Resealing

Once you’ve successfully reinserted the cork, proper storage is key to preserving the wine:

Keep It Upright – If you plan to finish the bottle within a day or two, keeping it upright helps prevent leaks.
Store in the Fridge – Refrigeration slows oxidation and preserves freshness, especially for white and rosé wines.
Use a Vacuum Pump – A wine preservation pump can remove excess air from the bottle, keeping the wine fresh for longer.

When to Consider an Alternative Closure

If a cork is too damaged, using a wine stopper might be a better option. Silicone stoppers, vacuum-sealed caps, or even a simple rubber stopper can work just as well and often provide an even better seal.

Final Thoughts

Next time you struggle with getting a stubborn cork back into a wine bottle, reach for the wax paper. This simple trick saves frustration and keeps your wine fresh for another day. Whether you’re storing an unfinished bottle or preventing spills, a little wax paper goes a long way.