Why Do Wine Tasters Spit? Simple Answers for Everyone

If you’ve ever watched a wine tasting and seen people swish, then spit, you might wonder: why not just swallow? The short answer is that spitting lets you taste a lot without overloading your palate or your body. It’s not a fancy trick – it’s a practical habit that keeps you sharp for the next sip.

The Science Behind Spitting

When you swirl wine, you release aromas that your nose picks up. Your taste buds then detect sugar, acidity, bitterness, and alcohol. Too many of those compounds in a short time can cause palate fatigue, where flavors start to blur together. By spitting, you remove most of the liquid and the alcohol, so your mouth stays fresh.

Spitting also protects you from drinking too much alcohol during a tasting. Professional judges often sample dozens of wines in a single session. Without spitting, they’d easily get drunk, which would skew their judgment and ruin the experience.

How to Spit Properly at a Tasting

Step 1: Use a spit bucket. Most tasting rooms provide a small bucket or a cup with a lid. If not, a folded napkin works fine – just keep it discreet.

Step 2: Take a small sip, swirl for 5‑7 seconds, then gently spit into the bucket. Don’t gulp; a moderate amount is enough to get the flavors.

Step 3: Rinse your mouth with water or a plain cracker between wines. This clears lingering flavors and resets your palate for the next pour.

Step 4: Take notes. Writing down what you smell and taste helps you remember each wine’s profile without relying on your memory alone.

Step 5: Stay relaxed. Spitting feels odd at first, but most people get comfortable after a couple of rounds. Remember, it’s a normal part of the process.

People also use spitting to stay sober enough to drive home. Many festivals and winery events have designated drivers, and spitting lets everyone enjoy the tasting responsibly.

In a casual setting, you can still use the same technique. You don’t need a fancy bucket – a plastic cup works just as well. The goal is to keep tasting, not to get a buzz.

So next time you see someone spitting at a tasting, know they’re not being rude. They’re simply protecting their palate, staying safe, and making sure each wine gets a fair review. Try it yourself next time you attend a wine flight – you’ll notice the difference right away.