Le Musee du Tire-Bouchon, Menerbes
Corkscrew museum & vineyard all in one near Menerbes
A private collection of ornate, unusual and ancient corkscrews in the vineyards of the Domaine de La Citadelle.
The first corkscrew appeared around the mid 17th century, most probably an English invention. It was at this time that the English actually began to keep their wines bottled rather than in barrels.
With the industrial era, the shape of the glass bottle changed: the change was from the so-called "onion-bulb" to the cylindrical form we know today. At the same time, the bottle neck became narrower, and the cork was invented to ensure a perfect seal. A plug extractor or "corkscrew" has since then become indispensable.
When to come
Opening time:
From April 1 to October 31
Open daily: 10 am-12h and 14h-19h
From November 1st to March 31st
Open: 9h-12h and 14h-17h except Sundays and holidays
