How do you replace the Coravin gas capsules?

Pouring a glass of wine without opening the bottle sounds almost like magic. That’s exactly how a Coravin wine system works. A thin needle pierces the cork, the system injects argon gas into the bottle and pushes the wine up. No oxygen reaches the wine, no oxidation occurs, and your bottle stays good for weeks or even months. But the system only works as long as there’s enough gas in the capsule. Want to know how it works? Read all about how do you replace the Coravin gas capsules? In this guide you’ll find step-by-step instructions on how to safely replace the capsule, when it’s time for a new one, and what to check afterwards.

How do you replace the Coravin gas capsules?

Tip: always turn the capsule with the system facing downwards so no gas is lost during the replacement.

When is your capsule empty?

You’ll notice fairly quickly when a capsule is empty. The system loses pressure, the wine is harder to push up, or no liquid comes out at all. Don’t hear the characteristic hiss when you operate the handle? Then it’s time for a new capsule. Good to know: one capsule is good for roughly fifteen glasses of wine, depending on the model you use.

What do you need?

To replace it you only need a new argon gas capsule that fits your wine system. Check which type of capsule belongs to your model, because not all capsules are universal. You won’t need any tools — your hands are enough.

Step by step: replacing the capsule

Turn the handle of the wine system toward you to open it. This is the capsule holder, often recognizable by the grooved or ridged top.
Hold the system with the capsule holder facing upwards. This minimizes the risk of losing gas if there’s a small remainder in the capsule.
Unscrew the capsule holder by turning it counterclockwise. Use a firm but steady twisting motion.
Remove the empty capsule from the holder. You can recycle the empty capsule with your regular metal recycling.
Place the new capsule into the holder. Make sure it sits straight and not at an angle, otherwise the holder won’t seal properly.
Screw the capsule holder back on by turning it clockwise until it’s snug. Don’t overtighten — hand-tight is sufficient.
Test the system by operating the handle. Do you hear the gas hissing? Then the capsule is seated correctly and you’re ready to pour.

Note: only for bottles with a natural cork

The wine system only works with bottles sealed with a real, natural cork. Screw caps or synthetic corks won’t work: the needle can’t form a proper seal and the wine will oxidize anyway. Unsure whether your bottle is suitable? Inspect the cork closely. A natural cork has a slightly irregular texture and smells like cork. A synthetic cork is smooth and feels more plastic-like.

Check the needle after use

After each session it’s wise to take a look at the needle. Small cork particles can sometimes remain in or around the needle. Wipe the needle gently with a clean, dry cloth. Never push anything into the needle opening — that can damage the system. A clean needle ensures better flow and a longer life for your wine system.

How many glasses do you get from one capsule?

Expect on average twelve to fifteen glasses per capsule, depending on the size of your wine system and how long you operate the lever for each pour. Do you pour large glasses or use the system regularly for multiple bottles at once? Then a capsule will run out sooner. Keep in mind there’s always a slight drop in pressure with each pour. That’s normal and doesn’t affect the quality of your wine.

Argon is safe, but dispose of capsules properly

Argon is an inert, non-toxic gas and completely safe to use. Empty capsules are small metal disposable items. Dispose of them with the other metal waste or check with your municipality how small metals are collected. Make sure the capsule is truly empty before you throw it away. Give it a little shake: don’t feel any pressure anymore? Then it’s empty.

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A Coravin wine system uses argon gas to preserve wine without removing the cork. The gas capsule is the heart of the system. Once the capsule is empty, the system stops working. The good news is that swapping a capsule takes less than a minute if you know what you’re doing. With the right technique and a new capsule at hand, you can keep enjoying your favorite wine, glass by glass, at your own pace.

Argon is a noble gas and completely tasteless and odorless. It’s heavier than oxygen and therefore forms a protective layer above the wine in the bottle. That’s exactly why this system is so clever: your wine will taste the same the next week as the day you first poured it. Always make sure you have a spare capsule at home, because it’s awkward to discover you’re out of gas when you want to pour a glass.