Age is just a number.
Until you’re opening a 1989.
The Durand is designed for older bottles where corks can be dry, brittle, and prone to fracture. It stabilizes these fragile corks so the pour stays clean. Cork-free.
Named for sommelier Yves Durand and developed by Mark Taylor, a collector who needed a better solution for mature bottles, the tool combines a traditional screw with prongs to support compromised corks.
Corks deteriorate with storage shifts, oxidation, temperature fluctuation, and time. It’s just material science.
Mid-service the other night, I didn’t stop to photograph the bottom half of the cork beside the decanter. Invasive guests service and all. The cork split. Bottom half extracted. Wine untouched. Job done.
The Durand stores in its cork case and requires little maintenance. Wipe with a polishing cloth. If needed, wash with warm water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly before storing.
Some bottles don’t require safeguarding.
A screw cap. A standard waiter’s key. That’s it. Done.
Others do.
Link below if you’re building a bar or cellar with intention.
This may be commissionable
Taste. Toast. Train.