Let’s face it—being a wine lover isn’t just about savoring the perfect glass of vino. It’s also about collecting an arsenal of gadgets, accessories, and tools that make every sip just a tad more enjoyable—or, let’s be honest, a lot more ridiculous. Sure, the essentials like corkscrews and decanters are non-negotiable, but there’s a whole world of over-the-top wine gizmos that you didn’t know you needed—until now. And guess what? You’re going to buy them, love them, and wonder how you ever lived without them.
Join me on a lighthearted journey through the most delightfully unnecessary wine gadgets out there. From high-tech openers to wine glass thermometers, these items might not make the wine taste better, but they’ll definitely make the experience a whole lot more fun. So, let’s explore the world of the top 10 wine gadgets that are completely over the top, utterly impractical, and absolutely irresistible
1. High-tech electric wine openers
Why you don’t need it: A simple corkscrew does the job.
Why you’ll want it: Because who doesn’t want to impress their guests with a wine opener that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie? With USB charging, LED lights, and even Bluetooth connectivity, this isn’t just a wine opener—it’s a conversation starter.
Example: Imagine an electric wine opener that comes with a built-in flashlight and battery level indicator. It’s totally unnecessary, yet there’s something incredibly satisfying about popping a cork with a gadget that practically glows in the dark.
2. Personalized wine charms for every personality
Why you don’t need it: A post-it note or a simple memory does the trick.
Why you’ll want it: How else will you ensure that everyone knows which glass is theirs? These tiny charms add a personal touch to your gathering, with designs ranging from unicorns to cowboy hats.
Example: Picture a set of 12 wine charms featuring whimsical designs like flamingos, rainbows, and corkscrews. They’re completely pointless, but just wait until your guests start mixing them up—let the fun begin!
3. Rotating wine racks – because static is so last year
Why you don’t need it: A regular wine rack holds your bottles just fine.
Why you’ll want it: Because nothing says "I’m serious about my wine" like a rotating wine rack that makes your living room look like a mini wine cellar. Plus, it adds a dramatic flair to choosing your next bottle.
Example: An electric rotating wine rack that holds up to 12 bottles. It’s ideal for showcasing your collection—even if you never plan to drink them. Because let’s be real, sometimes it’s all about the show.
4. Smart wine bottles that notify you when your wine is ready
Why you don’t need it: You can check the temperature yourself.
Why you’ll want it: This is the gadget for those who love their tech almost as much as their wine. Get alerts on your phone when your wine has reached the perfect drinking temperature.
Example: A smart decanter that measures temperature, humidity, and tannin levels, sending an alert when the wine is at its best. Is it necessary? No. Is it oddly satisfying? Absolutely.
5. Custom engraved wine bottles – because regular labels are too ordinary
Why you don’t need it: It’s what’s inside the bottle that counts.
Why you’ll want it: Imagine pulling out a bottle with your name engraved on it at your next gathering. It’s over-the-top, but the reactions from your friends will make it worth every penny.
Example: A service that lets you order wine bottles with personalized labels. It’s completely extra, but it’s a guaranteed conversation piece at parties. Plus, who doesn’t want to feel like a wine mogul for a night?
Did you know?
Even the biggest names in the wine world couldn’t resist hopping on the bandwagon of creating things we absolutely don’t need—but can’t help but adore. Trust me, these are some of the most delightfully over-the-top examples you’ll ever come across.:
Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial
Description: Moët & Chandon, one of the world’s most famous champagne producers, launched Moët Ice Impérial as the first champagne designed to be served with ice cubes. Traditionally, adding ice to champagne is a cardinal sin, but Moët challenged the norm and created a product perfect for luxurious summer parties.
Relevance: This champagne is a prime example of a luxury item that is utterly unnecessary but has become popular for its creative twist on a classic drink. It’s the perfect fit for a list of "unnecessary but beloved" wine trends.
Armand de Brignac ("Ace of Spades")
Description: Armand de Brignac, also known as "Ace of Spades," is an ultra-luxurious champagne known for its shiny metal bottles and association with celebrities. The bottle alone is a conversation starter, and it stands out on any table with its extravagant design.
Relevance: This is a classic example of a wine that’s as much a status symbol as it is a drink. Armand de Brignac fits perfectly into the theme of "unnecessary but beloved" wine items, where the bottle is just as important (if not more so) than the contents.
Château d'Yquem wine key
Description: Château d’Yquem, one of the most prestigious sweet wine producers from Sauternes, offers an exclusive, handcrafted wine opener made from materials as luxurious as the wine itself. This wine key is unnecessary in a practical sense but represents a piece of the Château d’Yquem experience.
Relevance: This is a prime example of wine gear that’s more luxury than necessity. While it’s unnecessary, it’s something many wine enthusiasts dream of owning, especially those who appreciate the finer details of the wine experience.
Veuve Clicquot champagne saber
Description: Veuve Clicquot, another renowned champagne producer, is known for its long history and tradition of sabering champagne—opening the bottle with a sword. They even produce their own stylish sabers that can be purchased as part of exclusive gift sets.
Relevance: Champagne sabering is the ultimate unnecessary act, but it’s incredibly popular for special occasions. Veuve Clicquot’s elegant sabers are a perfect example of something that’s absolutely not needed to open a bottle of wine—but definitely adds a show.
These examples add a touch of "wine finesse" to our discussion and reinforce the idea that sometimes, it’s the most unnecessary things that bring the most joy—especially in the world of wine.
6. Shower wine holders – because life is too short to wait
Why you don’t need it: Who drinks wine in the shower, anyway?
Why you’ll want it: Because multitasking is a modern-day art, and sometimes you need to unwind with a glass of wine while belting out your favorite tunes in the shower.
Example: A waterproof suction cup holder that secures your wine glass while you sing along to your shower playlist. It’s ridiculously unnecessary, but once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
7. Wine glasses with built-in thermometers
Why you don’t need it: Most wines are fine at room temperature.
Why you’ll want it: For those who take their wine temperature seriously, this glass lets you monitor every sip. It’s a gadget that’s more about the gimmick than the grape.
Example: A glass that displays the temperature at the bottom, so you can have a heated debate about whether your wine is perfectly chilled. It’s overly complicated, but undeniably entertaining.
8. The wine yoke – the ultimate multitasking wine accessory
Why you don’t need it: You have two hands.
Why you’ll want it: Sometimes, those two hands need to be free for other important tasks—like gesturing wildly while discussing your favorite vintage. This accessory lets you hang your glass around your neck so you can do just that.
Example: A flexible wine yoke that holds your glass steady against your chest. It’s perfect for cocktail parties where you need both hands to emphasize just how practical your wine yoke is. Spoiler: It’s not.
9. Automatic pouring wine stoppers
Why you don’t need it: Pouring wine is not exactly difficult.
Why you’ll want it: This gadget does the pouring for you at the push of a button. It’s like having your own personal sommelier, minus the human touch.
Example: Stoppers that automatically open and pour the wine at a customizable speed. Is it necessary? No. Is it fun to use? Absolutely. Plus, it makes you feel like you’re in a futuristic wine bar.
10. Designer wine bottle bags – because your wine deserves to travel in style
Why you don’t need it: A regular bag works just fine.
Why you’ll want it: Because nothing says “I love wine” like a designer bag specifically made for your bottle. This accessory is for those who want to carry their wine with as much style as they carry themselves.
Example: Luxurious wine bags made of leather or sparkling with glitter—perfect for those stylish wine picnics. Because why should your wine travel any less fabulously than you do?
Final sips
These so-called “unnecessary” wine gadgets might not enhance the flavor of your wine, but they definitely add a dose of fun and frivolity to your wine routine. While you might not need them, they’ll certainly make your wine experience more entertaining—and give you a good laugh in the process. After all, life’s too short to drink wine without a few extra gadgets!