Wine Tasting Etiquette in Burgundy: To Spit or Not?

“Sorry, I forgot to spit.” That’s what Sam told me yesterday. Sam had traveled all the way from Amsterdam for his very first wine tasting class in Beaune. He was a little embarrassed; he had just seen me spit out the first wine while he had spontaneously swallowed his.

 This exact situation has probably happened to me over a thousand times in my 20 years at Sensation Vin, but it still makes me smile. And the question that followed—'Do I actually have to spit?'—is a classic for anyone discovering the world of wine."  

Difference between professionals and amateurs

At first, it might seem strange to write an article about spitting. But if you think about it, it is the most obvious difference between professionals and amateurs. For professionals, tasting always rhymes with spitting.

To be clear: I don't consider it a “faux-pas” when my guests swallow. No one will blame you for enjoying a sip! However, there is a reason why we pros use the spittoon so systematically. It’s not about dislike; it’s about clarity and endurance.

Common myths about spitting out wine

In my classes at Sensation Vin, I’ve noticed that people often hesitate to spit for a few specific reasons. Let’s look at why these myths shouldn't hold you back.

“Isn't it bad manners?”

Usually, yes. My parents always taught me that spitting was rude. But I also learned that there are exceptions to every rule, and wine is a perfect one. In a tasting room or a cellar, the spittoon is a tool of the trade, not a sign of disrespect.

“I don't want to waste the winemaker's hard work”

This is a very thoughtful point. But rest assured, a winemaker will never be offended. They know that spitting is a sign of respect for the technical analysis of their work. They want you to appreciate the balance, the acidity, and the terroir of the tenth wine as much as the first one.

“I’m afraid I’ll make a mess!”

This is the most practical fear! My advice? Practice in the shower. It sounds funny, but you’ll feel comfortable with the technique fairly quickly. It’s all about confidence.

Why spitting is essential for a full day of tasting

The most frequent comment I hear is: “I love wine! Why would I spit out something I enjoy?”

It makes perfect sense... until you plan on visiting several estates or attending a deep-dive masterclass. When you swallow, fatigue sets in faster. Your palate becomes "saturated," and your ability to distinguish the subtle nuances between wines diminishes.

Moreover, if you are driving through the beautiful roads of the Côte de Beaune, safety is paramount. Spitting allows you to enjoy the full aromatic profile of the wines while remaining perfectly sharp and within legal limits.

Conclusion: enjoy the moment

Whatever you prefer: swallowing a few sips or spitting like a pro, the most important thing is that you enjoy the experience to the fullest. Wine is, above all, about pleasure and sharing.

Are you ready to refine your tasting technique in the heart of Burgundy? If you want to practice your skills in a private, relaxed setting, I invite you to discover my Custom Wine Experiences. We can design a session that perfectly matches your pace and your curiosity.

Cheers,

Céline Dandelot Wine Expert & Educator