How To Remove Wine Labels

Removing existing wine labels before you add your custom wine label will create a clean look on your wine bottle. To help you, here are some tips on removing existing wine labels.

The method you decide to use for removing an existing label depends on what was used originally to attach the label to the bottle. There are two basic ways wine labels are adhered to bottles. First, is adhesive, a pressure sensitive or what is commonly called a "sticker" label, used with most wines; or glue, generally found on European wines. After you figure out what kind of label you have (see Step One), take the appropriate steps to remove it.

Step One for Both Label Types:
Use a fingernail or razor to raise the corner of the label. If the back, or inside, of the label is sticky, follow the steps for "sticker" labels. If the label back is NOT sticky, follow the steps for "glued" labels.

STICKER WINE LABELS
Step Two:
For "sticker" wine labels, the next step is to run the hottest water you can over the label to make removal easier and quicker. Let the bottle stand in water up to the top of the existing label for a few minutes.

Step Three:
Test the label to see if it's ready to be removed by carefully sliding a razor under the label edge to start. If it comes up easily, you will be able to gently pull the label off in a large section.

Step Four:
Thoroughly dry the bottle and apply your new custom label from Winelabel.com

GLUED WINE LABELS
Step Two:
For a "glued" wine label, place the bottle in warm water in a container deep enough to cover the bottle above the label. Let it stand until the water begins to cool.

Step Three:
Test the label to see if it's ready to remove by carefully sliding a razor under the label edge. If it's ready, you will be able to pull the label off. When you peel the label off, it may begin to separate with some of the label remaining stuck to the bottle. Take a razor and use it to start peeling the label from the other side.

Step Four:
Thoroughly dry the bottle and apply your new custom label from Winelabel.com