Cork removal device

A method for removing a cork from the neck of a bottle having a predetermined liquid level, the cork having been damaged or pushed downwardly past the reach of a conventional cork removal device, the method using a cork removal device having a strap attached to a handle, the strap made from a material having a modulus of elasticity sufficient to withstand the expansion forces necessary for pulling the cork upwardly through the neck of the bottle and, in combination with the dimensions of the neck of the bottle, sufficient to withstand the compressive forces necessary to force the cork through the neck of the bottle into the liquid, the strap having a first folded position and a second unfolded position, the method comprising the steps of:

• inserting the strap in the folded position into the neck of the bottle until two creases in the folded strap contact the cork;
• applying a downward compressive force on the handle so that the creases push against the cork thereby forcing the cork through the neck of the container to float in the liquid;
• pulling upwardly on the handle to remove the device from the neck of the bottle;
• unfolding the strap into its second position by pulling downwardly on a saddle portion thereof;
• inserting the saddle portion of the strap into the neck of the bottle;
• pushing downwardly on the handle to lower the unfolded strap through the neck of the bottle;
• using the creases touching the neck of the bottle to guide and position the strap until the saddle portion touches the cork floating in the liquid;
• continuing downward pressure on the handle to deflect the cork until the saddle portion is positioned just beyond the bottom of the neck of the bottle;
• twisting the handle until the cork floats upwardly into the saddle portion;
• and
• pulling upwardly on the handle while applying downward force to the bottle to remove the cork captured within the saddle portion.