Narzannik: a necessary tool for bartenders and sommeliers

Uncorking a bottle beautifully without damaging the cork is one of the main skills of a bartender. A special device, a narzannik, helps you master it. This small gadget, combining the functions of a knife and a corkscrew, simplifies the work of the sommelier and makes serving wine aesthetically pleasing.

What is Narzannik?

The sommelier knife was patented by a German inventor in 1883.
The design of the tool remains unchanged - it resembles a folding knife. The metal body hides a lever mechanism inside that extends the corkscrew when the cork is removed. Opposite is a knife blade used to cut the foil on wine bottles.

If the narzannik is unfolded, the knife and lever will be on opposite sides of the handle. The corkscrew protrudes in the middle, perpendicular to the body. The small device contains all the tools needed to open a wine bottle.
The cork is removed instantly, without crumbs.

Types of Narzanniks

There are two options for the sommelier knife:

• single-stage - equipped with a folding leg with one tooth. Allows you to remove the plug with a sharp movement;
• two-stage - equipped with two teeth. It works in stages - moves the cork to the edge of the neck, then pulls it out.

The second type is considered more professional, as it operates accurately and silently.

Narzanniks also differ in external design. The classic instrument is closed, all elements are hidden inside the body. Open models are also produced, without a dense body.

Most narzanniks have a streamlined shape with two smooth curves. Designer products are equipped with a thickened handle, like a hunting knife.

Materials for production

Despite its small size, the bar gadget must be durable. The material of manufacture is usually stainless steel. Elite models are made of Damascus steel, which is characterized by increased strength. Such products are equipped with handles made of expensive materials, including:

• ebony;
• bone;
• buffalo horn;
• walnut wood;
• beech;
• oak.

Refined decoration is preferred by waiters of expensive establishments, where elegant serving of wines is important.

How to choose a narzannik

The main qualities of a tool that need to be taken into account when choosing are lightness, strength, and ease of use. A good knife is easily distinguished by tight but easily controlled hinges.

When buying a sommelier knife, it is important to evaluate three criteria:

• functionality – the two-stage model provides more possibilities;
• ergonomics - the tool should fit comfortably in the hand. It’s good if the handle is equipped with a matte coating that prevents slipping;
• dimensions - the optimal length of the narzannik is 12-13 cm. More bulky accessories are inconvenient.

The price of the product depends on the format of the bar or restaurant.

Proper use of a sommelier knife

First you need to wipe the bottle, removing dust and moisture. This is necessary so that the glass does not slip when opening. Next, remove the foil wrapped around the neck. Opening the knife, carefully cut the foil from the bottom, then from the top. We film the whole thing.

The second step is the introduction of the spiral. Place the bottle on a hard surface and insert the tip of the corkscrew into the middle of the cork. We do not screw the spiral too deeply so as not to damage the plug or push it inside.

Having screwed in the corkscrew, we fix the lever on the edge of the neck. Pull the handle up and remove the plug. If the narzannik is two-stage, first place the lower part of the lever on the neck, then the upper one. With the first movement we push the plug out, with the second we pull it out completely.

What to consider when purchasing

The choice of a narzannik is determined by three factors:

• purpose - if the instrument is purchased for a bar, cafe, restaurant, a professional two-stage model is required. At home, you can use a single-stage knife;
• frequency of use - the more often wine is ordered, the stronger the equipment should be;
• establishment format - elite restaurants use luxury accessories made of Damascus steel and expensive wood.

Popular manufacturers

Among the companies producing narzanniks, three companies are leading:

Pulltaps is a famous Spanish brand. Produces more than 20 types of professional sommelier knives. The products are equipped with double articulated arms. The corkscrews are coated with a layer of titanium alloy, so they slide inside the corks more easily. The most interesting Pulltaps products are knives with artistic design, Soft Touch coating, and models for left-handers.

Prohotel is a leading Chinese manufacturer of culinary equipment. Produces two-stage stainless steel narzanniks. The products are distinguished by their simplicity of construction and elegant design. Prohotel products are inexpensive and therefore recommended for small bars.

Ghidini is an Italian company that produces stylish bar accessories. Offers inexpensive narzannikov of different types - single-stage, two-stage, original shape (key, ring).