The world of wine is full of curious terms that, depending on the etymology of the word, we can identify at first glance. But there are others that, even though we are Castilian, are difficult to decipher. This time we will talk about agrafe: what exactly it refers to.

Unlike terroir or bouquet, terms that were related to wine and its production,agrafe refers to the packaging of the bottle itself. This is the “staple”, or rather the metal closure made of wire that holds the cork of a sparkling wine in place during the second fermentation.

However, although it is an element that has been very relevant in the wine world, nowadays the use of agrafe is being replaced by brass plates. These become the final closure of the bottle and are then ready to be marketed.

More meanings

Outside the world of wine, agrafe has more meanings, although the same meaning. It is therefore a clamp used to join two elements together. According to the Royal Academy of the Spanish Language (RAE), it refers specifically to the medical staple applied to heal a wound.

In any case, its most generalised use is that which conceptualises the agrafe as the piece of metal that closes any container, be it a bottle or a flask. And that it does not necessarily have to contain wine inside.

At Barcolobo no bottle has this closure as no sparkling wines are produced. But, we know that everyone has had a bottle of cider, cava or champagne in their hands at some point to toast some celebration. So, the next time you uncork a sparkling wine, be careful with the agrafe.