Removing a Wine Label

When finding a wine that really hits the spot I save the label to accurately remember its name and vintage information. You would think it would be simple, but sometimes removing a pesky one can be nearly impossible. I have heard all kinds of suggestions on how to remove them and the safer methods include peeling, soaking, heating, or using a wine label remover.

Peeling

Start in a corner and try to peel off the label. With any luck, the winery used the new peel and stick style and it pulls right off. However, the majority of labels on bottles will not peel off, so be careful or you will tear it. Nonetheless, you are still in luck as you can use another of the tried and true methods outlined below.

Soaking

Most likely, you will have a standard label with traditional glue, so try soaking in warm water. Just place the empty bottle in a sink full of hot water and add a few drops of liquid detergent. After about twenty minutes, the label will be floating on top of the water or ready to be easily lifted off the bottle.

External Heating

Some of the new glues are unaffected by water. In this situation use a blow dryer for about five minutes which will melt the glue enough to allow the label to slide off the bottle.

Internal Heating

This method is successful with wineries using some of the tougher self-adhesive labels. In this case, pour boiling water into the bottle, wait 10 or so minutes, and try peeling off the label by sliding a fingernail under a corner.

Wine Label Removers

Wine label removers are clear plastic sheets with a very strong adhesive on one side. To use it, remove the paper backing and place it over the label, rubbing it down to cover all parts. When peeling off the label remover, the surface of the label is torn from its backing and it adheres to the label remover sheet.

Worst Case

When you have exhausted all the options and just cannot remove a label, think about taking a photograph with a digital camera. This is the last resort, without keeping the whole bottle!

Contributor: WineDefintions Staff Writer

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