When it comes to spitting wine, the primary goal is to get the wine into a designated spit bucket or spittoon. This is the most common and appropriate method of disposing of wine during tastings and professional settings. However, it's worth noting that in some specific situations, such as barrel rooms, wineries may allow spitting on the floor. Nevertheless, it is always polite to ask for permission before doing so.
Spitting wine may seem a bit awkward or uncomfortable at first, but it is a necessary skill for sommeliers and wine enthusiasts. It is an essential part of the tasting process, especially when you are tasting multiple wines in one sitting.
To effectively spit wine, it requires practice and technique to avoid any mishaps like missing the target, dribbling, or sputtering. Here are a few tips to help you master the art of spitting:
1. Posture and positioning: Stand comfortably and maintain good posture. Lean slightly forward over the spit bucket to ensure that any expelled wine goes directly into the bucket. Keep your mouth slightly open to allow for an easy flow of wine.
2. Control your breath: Take a deep breath before tasting the wine, and then exhale slowly through your nose. This helps to clear your nasal passages and prepares you for the tasting. Avoid exhaling forcefully, as it may cause the wine to spray out.
3. Sip and swish: Take a small sip of wine and allow it to coat your mouth. Swish the wine around to fully experience its flavors and textures. Pay attention to the different taste sensations on different parts of your palate.
4. Spit decisively: Once you have evaluated the wine, gather the saliva-wine mixture in your mouth and aim for the spit bucket. Spit decisively but gently, allowing the wine to flow out in a controlled manner. Avoid forcefully spitting, as it may create unnecessary splatter.
5. Aim for the target: Practice your aim by directing the expelled wine towards the center of the spit bucket. It may take a few tries to get the hang of it, so don't be discouraged if you miss initially. With practice, you will become more accurate.
6. Maintain etiquette: When spitting, try to be discreet and avoid making loud or disruptive noises. Be mindful of others around you and respect their space. If you're unsure of the protocol, observe others in the same tasting environment to get a sense of what is considered appropriate.
Remember, spitting is a professional practice and is widely accepted in the wine industry. It allows you to taste and evaluate a larger number of wines without becoming intoxicated. So, don't worry too much about how you look while spitting. Focus on perfecting your technique and honing your tasting skills.
In my personal experience as a sommelier, I initially found spitting wine to be a bit uncomfortable and even felt self-conscious about it. However, with time and practice, it became second nature. I realized that it is an essential skill for anyone in the wine industry and is widely accepted among professionals.
During my training, I had the opportunity to attend numerous tastings and wine events where spitting was the norm. Observing experienced sommeliers and practicing alongside them helped me refine my technique and become more confident in spitting wine.
Spitting wine is an integral part of the wine tasting process and is essential for professionals in the industry. With practice, you can master this skill and focus on evaluating and appreciating the wines without the worry of overconsumption.