Whiskey Tasting Etiquette: Should You Spit or Swallow?

Ever watched someone take a sip of glorious, amber whiskey at a crowded tasting event, breathe in that wave of smoky vanilla and oak, swirl it gently—then promptly spit it out into the nearest vessel? If you’re new to whiskey tastings, this move can seem odd. Some folks recoil at the idea (“Isn’t that wasting good whiskey?”) while others think it’s downright sensible, especially when you’re several samples deep. Let’s cut straight to it: spitting at a whiskey tasting isn’t rude or wasteful. It’s a practical call, one most pros abide by. But is it for you? That’s where things get interesting.

Why Do People Spit at Whiskey Tastings?

At first glance, spitting out top-shelf whiskey feels all kinds of wrong. But if you’ve ever worked your way through dozens of little glasses, you’ll see the logic. The world’s major whiskey festivals—think Whisky Live or the Kentucky Bourbon Festival—often have more than 100 offerings. Drinking every last drop isn’t just a shortcut to a blurry evening; it can flatten your palate fast and put your liver through the wringer. Here’s the science that backs up the spittoon. Alcohol is fun, but it numbs the taste buds as you go. If you’re aiming to actually remember tasting notes instead of just giggling at the end, you need those senses sharp. That’s exactly why sommeliers and whiskey pros routinely spit out samples, especially when evaluating or comparing several pours side by side.

Historically, this practice wasn’t just a trick to stay sober. In 18th and 19th century Scotland, distillers performed professional tastings, often blind, on dozens of barrels at a time. They needed clear heads and accurate palates. So, they’d taste, swish, and spit. Modern events, from San Francisco’s World Spirits Competition to private collector gatherings, still use this technique. Spitting also means you can pace yourself. Most whiskey samples at tastings are around 0.5 oz to 1 oz, but it adds up—ten tastings and you’ve downed close to a third of a bottle. A seasoned taster once said, “Spit at the start, not just the finish.” Sage advice if you plan on walking out of the venue unassisted.

What Happens If You Swallow Every Sample?

Let’s say you decide to swallow every single drop. Whiskey typically clocks in at 40-60% ABV (alcohol by volume). Glug back half an ounce per sample, and after six or so glasses, you will absolutely feel it. Beyond inebriation, your palate also dulls remarkably fast. Professional whiskey judge Heather Greene once quipped, “By the fourth pour, your taste buds are at half-strength.” Studies from the Scottish Whisky Research Institute suggest the number of taste receptors able to detect bitterness and sweetness drops after about two standard pours worth of spirits. What’s the point of forking out for tickets, travel, and rare pours if your senses are on strike?

There’s a social reason to spit, too. If you’re talking with other enthusiasts or distillers, staying sober helps you remember the details—whether that’s what you loved about a peated Islay versus a bold Kentucky rye or an awkward interaction you’d rather not replay. You also lower the odds of saying something you regret (the whiskey world is small, and reputations stick). Seasoned whiskey fans are all about curious enjoyment, not overindulgence. That’s why at large events, it’s normal to see discreet “dump buckets” set on every table. If you’re worried about peer judgment, relax. Most serious tasters won’t bat an eye. On the contrary, they’ll probably respect your discipline.

How to Spit (or Not Spit) with Class

Now for the mechanics—spitting doesn’t mean blasting whiskey across the table. There are a few simple techniques to keep things tasteful (as in, not gross). Always use the provided vessel—a stainless steel or porcelain spittoon is the norm. Bring your mouth as close as possible and spit gently. No one wants to witness a geyser. And hey, no need to apologize or make a scene. It’s a standard move, as common as swirling or sniffing your glass.

If you just can’t bring yourself to spit, or if the event is more laid-back (like a small group tasting at home), that’s perfectly fine. Drink as you wish, but pace yourself. Alternate with sips of water, and don’t finish every glass. Some hosts encourage guests to pour unfinished whiskey into communal dump buckets, a totally normal practice that helps cut waste and keeps you upright. Bring mints or unsalted crackers to reset your palate between samples—most events provide these, but it’s good to be prepared. And please, don’t treat the spittoon like a trash can. It’s not for napkins or chewing gum.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Whiskey Tasting

You want to walk away from a whiskey tasting with memories, not a pounding head. Here’s how to get the best of both worlds:

• Arrive with a plan. Take a look at the event’s whiskey list ahead of time and pick your must-try drams. This gives you direction and keeps you from getting swept up in free-pouring frenzy.
• Start with lighter whiskeys (think grain or bourbon) and work your way to heavier, smokier types (like a robust Islay single malt). This order preserves your taste buds and helps you notice differences.
• Don’t be shy—ask for water or spit buckets at any station. Table hosts expect it.
• Bring a small notebook or use your phone to jot down first impressions. Even snappy notes like “rich caramel, hint of peat” will help you recall what stood out.
• Hydrate every chance you get. Drink a glass of water for every couple of samples. Your body (and brain) will thank you in the morning.
• Take breaks. Get some air, wander, eat something bland (bread is great for soaking up alcohol and clearing your mouth).
• Compare notes with friends or other tasters. Sometimes the best part of an event is swapping stories about a new favorite or a surprising disappointment.
• Stash a bottle of water in your bag or pocket if the event is crowded and refreshment tables are few and far between.
• If you accidentally swallow when you meant to spit, don’t stress. Happens to the best of us.
• If you want to splurge, look for masterclass tickets—they often offer smaller, rare pours and a more relaxed pace to savor each whiskey as you like.

So, do you spit out whiskey at a tasting? Most enthusiasts do—at least for most of the pours. Spitting keeps you sharp, lets you taste more, and saves you from a wobbly cab ride home. But if you’re there to savor a few special drams and enjoy the company, sipping and swallowing in moderation has its place, too. There’s no rule carved in oak; it’s all about tasting with intention and enjoying the ride. Either way, you’re part of a tradition that stretches back centuries, from the smoky cellars of Islay to buzzy city tasting halls. Sláinte!