Muselets, also known as wire cages or foils, are the wire structures that secure the cork in place on a champagne or sparkling wine bottle. The device plays a crucial role in maintaining the pressure inside the bottle and preventing the cork from popping prematurely. The exact manufacturing process can vary slightly among different producers. How muselets are typically manufactured:
Material Selection – Commonly made from high-quality wire, often steel or aluminum. Material choice depends on factors such as cost, aesthetics, and the desired strength of the muselet.
Wire Coiling – Select wire goes through a coiling machine which shapes it into a helical spring-like structure. The coiling process creates the basic structure of the muselet.
Cutting and Shaping – The coiled wire is then cut into individual pieces, each forming a single muselet. Both ends of the wire are shaped and bent to create the closure mechanism that will secure the cork.
Twisting and Securing – The muselet is twisted onto the neck of the champagne bottle. The twisting action secures the cork in place and ensures it remains sealed under pressure.
Hood Application – A metal or decorative foil, often called the hood or cap, is added to the top of the muselet. This enhances the aesthetics of the bottle and provides additional branding opportunities for the producer.
Printing or Labeling – Some muselets undergo printing and labeling processes to include branding, logos, or other information related to the champagne or sparkling wine producer.
Quality Control – Finished muselets go through quality control checks to ensure they meet the required standards. This may involve checking the dimensions, strength, and appearance of each muselet.
Packaging – After muselets pass quality control, they are packaged and sent to wineries or bottling facilities for use in sealing champagne and sparkling wine bottles.
Variations in the manufacturing process may exist depending on the specific requirements of producers and the materials used.
