A Brief History of the Laguiole Knife
Located on the high plateau of Aubrac in Aveyron, France, the village of Laguiole is the namesake of one of the most renowned French knives: the Laguiole knife, which originated in 1829.
Today, the Laguiole knife stands as an iconic symbol recognized globally for its prestige and quality.
Despite the gradual decline of its primary clientele – the peasants and rural communities, the Laguiole knife remains one of the few regional knives with deep roots in its homeland, gaining popularity far beyond its place of origin.
In 1829, Pierre-Jean Calmels, a resident of Laguiole, created the Laguiole knife. His inspiration stemmed from two models: the capuchadou, a fixed-blade knife used by Aubrac peasants to cut wood and aid sick animals; and the Spanish navaja, a pocket knife from Catalonia. Seasonal workers would often bring the renowned Navaja back to France after their travels.
With the introduction of a corkscrew feature in 1880, the Laguiole knife began making its mark in Paris. This was notably due to Aveyronnais residents who ventured to Paris to establish brasseries and cafes where they sold meat from their family farms directly to consumers.
Given its rising reputation, Laguiole artisans in the early 20th century collaborated with Thiers, the capital of French cutlery, to meet increasing demand. Production in Laguiole continued to flourish, complemented by Thiers’ expertise.
Over the years, a distinct phenomenon emerged among the artisans of Laguiole. Each craftsman, drawing from their unique talent and vision, began to establish their own brand and collection. Amidst the numerous manufacturers from the village of Laguiole, each stood out with their distinctive collections and craftsmanship. Their individual brands became a testament to their unique skills and interpretations of the Laguiole tradition.
From Folding Knife to Sommelier’s Tool
The sommelier corkscrew, often referred to as the waiter’s corkscrew, has over time risen to prominence as the esteemed counterpart to the Laguiole knife. Celebrated worldwide for its efficient single-step opening, its design, meticulously developed in collaboration with professional sommeliers, has made it an indispensable tool for wine connoisseurs and lovers of exquisite craftsmanship alike.
Each Laguiole corkscrew is the work of an individual artisan, imbuing each piece with a unique character. Crucial elements, like the corkscrew’s end caps (known as mitres) and plates, are shaped using locally-sourced molds.
The core material for the corkscrew is the 12C27 Sandvik steel, held in high regard as one of the pinnacle steels in modern cutlery. While early Laguiole knives showcased handles crafted from bone or horn, artisans, with time, have ventured into the use of more opulent materials such as diverse woods and even mammoth tusk.
Spotting Counterfeit Laguiole Knives and Corkscrews
The success of Laguiole knives and corkscrews has, regrettably, led to an influx of counterfeit versions in recent years. When purchasing these products, either online or in-store, it’s crucial to arm yourself with knowledge.
Introduction:
The Laguiole name is not monopolized by a single manufacturer. As “Laguiole” is in the public domain and its design isn’t trademarked, several genuine manufacturers operate from regions like Laguiole, Espalion, and Thiers. However, there are also mass-produced variants originating from Asia or even machine-made versions from France.
1. Manufacturer’s Branding:
When investing in a Laguiole corkscrew, ensure the manufacturer’s brand is prominently displayed. After all, you wouldn’t buy a vehicle simply branded as “car”; you’d look for specific makes like BMW, Mercedes, or Ferrari.
2. Video Proof of Craftsmanship:
Does the retailer’s website offer a glimpse into the manufacturing workshop? We exclusively offer products from the esteemed “Laguiole en Aubrac.” You can witness the meticulous crafting process of these corkscrews via a video link at the top left of this page. Moreover, videos showcasing individual corkscrews are available at the bottom of each product page.
3. Laser Engraving Option:
Is laser engraving available for personalization? Metal laser engraving machines represent a significant investment, typically necessitating a dedicated department and skilled personnel. The availability of such an option often speaks to a product’s authenticity.
4. Product Warranty:
Laguiole en Aubrac stands by the enduring quality of its products by offering a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. Should an issue arise a decade from now, the company will repair it. However, damages resulting from misuse, such as running the corkscrew through a dishwasher or using it inappropriately (e.g., to remove a wall peg), won’t be covered without charge.
Exclusive Offerings: Laguiole en Aubrac
On this site, our dedication to quality and authenticity is unwavering. That’s why we exclusively offer products from “Laguiole en Aubrac.” Established as one of the most prestigious makers of Laguiole knives and corkscrews, their products represent a blend of time-honored craftsmanship and unmatched quality. Each piece is a testament to artisan skill and tradition, meticulously crafted to provide an experience that transcends mere utility.
By choosing to offer only “Laguiole en Aubrac” products, we aim to ensure that our customers receive genuine, high-quality items that honor the rich heritage of Laguiole.
Best quality
Crafted with unrivaled precision and dedication, our products consistently set the gold standard in the industry. Expertly curated materials meet impeccable workmanship.
Customized
Every piece is uniquely molded to resonate with your individual taste, reflecting the essence of your personality. Exclusivity meets personal touch in each creation.
Designed for wine lovers:
Each design element speaks to the heart of the wine enthusiast. From vine to glass, our products celebrate the timeless art of winemaking and enjoyment.
