Spit or Swallow? Your Quick Guide to Wine Tasting Choices

When you sit down for a wine tasting, the first question that pops up is: do I spit or swallow? It’s not just a personal habit; it affects how you feel, how many wines you can try, and even how the tasting staff sees you.

Spitting is the classic move in professional tastings. A lot of wine‑pros do it because it lets them sample many wines without getting buzzed. Most tasting rooms even provide spit buckets, so the equipment is there for you.

Why You Might Choose to Spit

First, spitting keeps your palate fresh. If you swallow every pour, the alcohol and sugar start to coat your tongue, and you can’t smell the subtle notes any more. Spitting also means you can taste ten, twenty, even thirty wines in one sitting without feeling the hangover later.

Second, it’s a polite gesture in a group setting. When you’re tasting with friends or a guide, spitting shows you’re focused on the wine’s flavor, not the buzz. Many tasting events have a rule that you must spit, especially if the wines are high‑alcohol or the tasting is long.

Third, spitting helps you stay under the legal limit if you plan to drive home. Even a few glasses can add up, and a quick spit means you’ll still be clear‑headed for the road.

When Swallowing Makes Sense

If the tasting is casual and you’re only sampling a few wines, swallowing can be enjoyable. The alcohol carries some flavors that disappear when you spit, especially in sweet or fortified wines. A sip can also help you gauge how the wine feels in your mouth – the body, the finish, the warmth.

Swallowing works well if the tasting is paired with food. Food can balance the alcohol, so you won’t get too tipsy, and you’ll get a better sense of how the wine works with the dish.

Finally, if you’re tasting low‑alcohol wines, like most whites or rosés, a few sips won’t knock you out. In that case, just enjoy the moment and sip away.

So, how do you decide? Ask yourself three quick questions: How many wines are on the list? Do you need to drive later? Are you tasting with food? If the answer is many wines, you need a ride, or there’s no food, reach for the spit bucket. If it’s a short, relaxed session with a meal, feel free to swallow and savour.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure, start by spitting the first few pours, then switch to swallowing if you feel comfortable. This hybrid approach lets you stay sharp while still enjoying the full mouthfeel of a few special wines.

Remember, there’s no “right” answer that fits everyone. The best choice is the one that lets you enjoy the wine, stay safe, and keep the tasting experience fun.