FAQ
Functionality
What is a passive cooler?
A passive cooler maintains the temperature of whatever you put inside — it does not cool. That means your bottle needs to be pre-chilled before placing it in the kywie. Once inside, the wool fibres trap the cold air around the bottle and hold it there — for hours. This works in both directions: it keeps your white wine cold on a summer afternoon, and protects your red wine from getting too cold on a winter terrace.
What are the advantages of a passive over an active cooler?
Active coolers work by chilling the bottle down — often too far, bringing your wine close to freezing point. And once the ice melts or the cooling element is spent, they stop working entirely. The kywie cooler does neither. It maintains the temperature your bottle already has, without overcooling, and without stopping.
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Is the kywie cooler suitable for use in winter sports areas?
Yes. Most coolers only keep things cold — the kywie cooler maintains whatever temperature your bottle already has. That means it protects your red wine from getting too cold on a mountain terrace just as effectively as it keeps your white wine chilled on a summer afternoon. An elegant companion anywhere, from ski resorts to rooftop bars.
Is the cooler suitable for outdoor use?
That's the beauty of kywie—its dual functionality for indoor and outdoor use. Because it's lightweight and protective, it's perfect for carrying a bottle with you or keeping in your beach bag. You can also buy a cold bottle on the spot and place it in your cooler.
Is the kywie cooler suitable for frequent use?
Absolutely, the kywie cooler is designed for frequent use. Its high-quality construction and durable materials ensure that it can withstand regular usage without compromising its effectiveness or appearance.
Does the kywie cooler protect the bottle?
Yes. The soft sheepskin and snug fit work together as a natural buffer — protecting the glass from accidental bumps while keeping your bottle at the right temperature for hours. The kywie cooler is also perfect to take anywhere — your bottle is naturally protected on the go.
Is kywie a good present for someone with a wine fridge?
It certainly is, a wine fridge allows to keep your wines at a stable perfect temperature, it would be a shame to serve them warmer just because you take it out and place it on a table, in a living room that is warmer than your desired temperature.
Is kywie a good present for a wine connoisseur?
Absolutely, kywie makes for an excellent gift for someone with a wine cellar. Its ability to maintain bottle temperatures and its elegant design make it a valuable addition to any wine enthusiast's collection. Whether used in the cellar or brought out for special occasions, kywie enhances the overall wine experience. As kywie is a true product innovation, protected by international model rights, you gift the original brand and potentially a true surprise, even for a specialist.
Are the coolers suitable for red wine?
Yes, especially for red wines that should be consumed at 17 degrees, cooler than most room temperatures. Also great for enjoying red wine outdoors; imagine a winter terrace in the mountains or hot Mediterranean beach club in summer.
What is the major advantage of kywie compared to other coolers?
kywie cooler effectively maintains the bottle's temperature. It doesn't make the bottle colder like freezer coolers or ice buckets do - this deteriorates the taste of your wine. It looks elegant on the table (unlike some other coolers), it functions well (unlike double-walled steel coolers), it's portable for picnics (unlike ice buckets and stone coolers), it protects the bottle (unlike any other cooler), and finally, it's sustainable, locally made, eliminates the need for water and ice, and is fully biodegradable.
What is the lifespan of a kywie cooler?
Endless. It's durable with normal use. Printed coolers tend to maintain their appearance better. Some wear might be seen on suede over time, which can add to its charm. Sheepskin is a natural product that can show slight changes in colour and structure over time.
Do I need to remove the bottle from the cooler when pouring wine?
No, it's not necessary. In fact, we recommend keeping the bottle in the cooler until it's finished. The only downside is you might lose track of how quickly you're drinking. :)
May I leave the cooler in direct sunlight?
Suede and sheepskin are sensitive to direct sunlight. Like many natural materials (yes, even the fabulous ones 🤪), sheepskin can change colour if it’s left in direct sunlight (for too long). Coolers with prints are less sensitive. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent the bottle's top from heatin
Sizes and models
Which types of bottles are the different coolers suitable for?
See this graph depicting bottle types and corresponding coolers
Is the champagne model also suitable for wine?
Absolutely, we particularly recommend it for Burgundy. Only for very narrow bottles, it is suboptimal, as there might be too much space between the bottle and the wool, which reduces the insulating qualities.
Why should I buy the combination set?
A well-fitting bottle, not too tight or too loose, contributes to functionality. If you have both champagne and wine at home, you'll have a cooler for most bottles. For Ruinart enthusiasts, we suggest considering the XL Wide as well.
Are all products identical?
Sheepskin is a natural product and may differ in elasticity and thickness. Tanning and dye baths may also lead to variations in roughness and colour intensity.
What's the difference between suede and coated finishing?
Suede finishing offers a classic and sophisticated appearance, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the cooler. However, suede may be more sensitive to sunlight and wear over time. On the other hand, coolers with a coating on suede are generally easier to clean and may have increased resistance to fading caused by sunlight.
Sheep wool
Why wool?
Wool is nature's best insulator — and yes, the same material that keeps sheep warm in winter keeps your wine cold in summer. It contains millions of tiny air pockets that trap the cold air around your bottle and hold it there. Unlike synthetic fibres, wool stays dry and odour-free — even when wet, the air dries it naturally. It is softer, more comfortable, more beautiful, and more durable than any alternative.
Does a cooler have to be made from real wool?
Yes, that is crucial. Sheep Wool has extraordinary natural qualities: it keeps its bio-insulation, even when it is wet, it has an oily layer on the wool, keeping your cooler clean and without smell. On top, it is a rest product, waste of the food industry, meaning there are more sheepskins available then used for the creation of innovative products such as KYWIE coolers.
Why choose a Sheepskin cooler?
Sheepskin is the best natural insulating material in the world. Therefore, the combination of sheepskin and enjoying a fine bottle is the ideal pairing. It is completely biodegradable.
Sustainability
Is sheepskin an eco-conscious choice?
Sheepskin is the best natural insulating material in the world. Therefore, the combination of sheepskin and enjoying a fine bottle is the ideal pairing. It is completely biodegradable. On top, it is a rest product, waste of the food industry, meaning there are more sheepskins available then used for the creation of innovative products such as kywie coolers.
Why don't you use fake fur or vegan leather?
The curly hair of the sheep retains air better than any other material. Not to mention the sustainable properties of genuine sheepskin compared to fake fur or vegan leather, which contains plastics and is often not biodegrable. Read more on why we should always choose the genuine option for sustainability reasons, as inspired by materiologist Quentin Hirsinger.
Why is the kywie cooler sustainably made?
We produce locally, collaborate with family businesses, and utilize local sheep breeds like the Texel. kywie is handcrafted, with different models minimizing waste. We also repurpose leftover skins from the fashion industry for smaller batches.
Is kywie's packaging biodegradable?
Yes, we use only natural fibres for our packaging.
Why is kywie sustainable in use?
A significant amount of energy is invested in bringing wine to a delightful temperature, only for it to quickly warm up in the open air. Ice buckets waste both water and energy, at every use, while your kywie will keep its functionality and beauty for years.
Maintenance
How do I maintain my kywie cooler?
Suede coolers are best maintained with a suede brush — a quick brush brings the nap back and keeps it looking its best. For stubborn stains, a little sandpaper works wonders. Finish with a suede spray to protect the surface. Coated coolers are even easier: simply wipe with a damp cloth. For both: when wet, keep away from direct sunlight or heat to preserve the natural suppleness of the sheepskin.
How do I clean my kywie cooler?
The woolen inside of any cooler enjoys the natural self-cleaning characteristics of sheep wool. After use, just leave it in the open air to dry. The oily layer on the cooler will repel dirt. When cleaning the outside: most stains are brushed of with suede brush. If you want to wipe it down with a damp cloth, make sure you wipe the complete cooler, not only locally. Then let it dry (naturally) and brush it. Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.
What if I spilled red wine on my kywie?
To remove red wine stains from the cooler's woolen interior, lightly rinse under water while dabbing with a cloth. Consider a darker wool cooler if you are an ardent red wine drinker.
May I put my cooler in the washing machine?
Machine washing may damage the cooler's natural materials and make the cooler lose its elasticity. With a gently brush, you remove most stains. A kywie is like your favourite leather jacket, it gets more beautiful with time, embrace the natural look of it. If really needed, consider a professional dry-cleaning service.
Do I keep my coated cooler clean easily?
Yes, coolers with a coating on suede are generally easier to clean compared to traditional suede finish with a more open structure. The printed design is smoother, making it easier to remove stains. Just use a damp cloth to remove any stains. The woolen inside of any cooler enjoys the natural self-cleaning characteristics of sheep wool.
Professional use
Is the cooler suitable for the hospitality industry?
Yes, it is suitable for frequent use. Choose a printed model for the easiest possible maintenance. kywie adds an elegant design element to any table, while saving on energy and water. It supports your business' organic and sustainable character. Drinks that are not at the right temperature are deadly for the gastronomic experience.
How many coolers should we order for our restaurant.
The cooler does not need any time for preparation, as it adopts right away to the temperature of the pre-chilled bottle. This means that it is ready for another round of usage on the same day and even during the same service.
Our visitors are very demanding, they expect a very high standard of my restaurant.
kywie's insulating properties will help keep your wines and waters at the desired temperature without cooling it further down or getting warm. That way, you assure your guests taste your wines and waters at the temperature on which you have preserved it in your cellar or wine fridge. Its elegant design will enhance the ambiance. We are blessed to count several Michelin starred restaurants amongst our loyal clientele.
Why do I need kywie coolers for my hotel?
Less and less often the minibar is in use in hotels, with good reasons. Nevertheless, when you offer your clients a (refillable) bottle of water at their rooms, you still like to serve this chilled. kywie is also extremely suitable for room service offerings.
Is kywie suitable for professional wine tastings?
Absolutely, its ability to maintain bottle temperatures and its elegant design make it a valuable addition to any wine tasting. Whether used in the cellar or brought out for public tastings, kywie enhances the overall wine experience. As kywie is a true product innovation, protected by international model rights, you work with the original brand and potentially a true surprise, even for connaisseurs. And it is perfect for blind tastings as well, as the label of the bottle remains secret in its woolly cover ;-).
I am an event caterer, what are the advantages of kywie for my business?
kywie is designed for frequent use and lasts for years. It is foldable and lightweight, so it does not take up any space during transportation, nor does it risk breaking. You save on volume, weight and energy while offering a better experience.
Purchasing kywie
Is it worth getting a kywie if I already have a cooler?
Yes, kywie's versatility sets it apart. It protects the bottle, offers a pleasant grip, is visually appealing, suitable for picnics, and even maintains red wine at the perfect temperature. There is no cooler like a kywie cooler.
I don't drink alcohol, is kywie still for me?
kywie coolers are also suitable for sparkling water or other non-alcoholic beverages, it keeps all drinks in glass or metal bottles at the right temperature.
How does my kywie get shipped?
When you order your kywie, you will receive a track 'n trace code by our transportation party. We aim to send your package within 1-2 working days. kywie's are lightweight and unbreakable, so they always arrive in mint condition. Only variations are linked to the natural of the fabric.
How do I return my kywie?
Yes, prior to use and in its original packaging. Please email info@kywie.com to receive your return label