Wirehoods

A wirehood, also known as a muselet, is a cage of wire used to secure the cork in a bottle of a carbonated beverage, most notably champagne and other sparkling wines. This wire cage prevents the internal pressure of the carbonated liquid from dislodging the cork. The term "muselet" is French, derived from the word "museler," meaning "to muzzle."

Wirehoods are typically made from galvanized steel wire. The construction involves several loops of wire that are bent and twisted to form a cage. A crucial element is the plaque, a small disc of metal, often tin-plated steel or aluminum, that sits on top of the cork and beneath the wire loops. This plaque distributes the pressure from the wires evenly over the cork, preventing it from being damaged or pushed out prematurely. The wire loops are then twisted together under the neck of the bottle to create tension and hold the cork firmly in place.

The design of the wirehood has remained largely consistent for over a century, though minor variations in material and manufacturing techniques exist. The twisting mechanism at the bottom of the wirehood is a key feature that allows for easy removal by untwisting. The number of twists can sometimes indicate the origin or specific type of sparkling wine. Wirehoods are an essential component in the packaging and safety of carbonated beverages, ensuring that the cork remains secure until intentionally opened.