How to spit wine at a tasting

The quick answer

To spit wine at a tasting, take a small sip, assess it briefly, then lean over the designated spittoon and expel the wine gently downwards. Move aside afterwards so someone else can use it.

People spit because tasting several wines is different from drinking several wines. It helps limit how much wine they swallow and can help them stay focused as the tasting continues. It is not a test of expertise, and you do not need to feel embarrassed if you have never done it before.

At an Australian cellar door, wine show, class or festival, look for a spittoon, spit cup or tasting bucket. If you cannot see one, simply ask the staff where to spit.

How to do it discreetly

1. Take a modest sip. There is no need to fill your mouth. Smaller sips are easier to control and usually enough to assess the sample.
2. Taste briefly. Move the wine around your mouth if you wish, paying attention to its flavour and texture.
3. Move close to the vessel. Position yourself directly over the spittoon or cup, keeping it below your mouth.
4. Spit gently downwards. Lean slightly forward and use a controlled stream rather than forceful pressure. This helps avoid splashing and missed targets.
5. Step aside and wipe any drips. If you spill, ask for a napkin and carry on. Nobody expects a first attempt to be perfect.

A communal spittoon may be placed beside the tasting table, while some venues provide individual cups. A tasting bucket or dump bucket is for wine that is not being swallowed, not for drinking water. When in doubt, ask.

Tasting-room etiquette

Try not to block the vessel while other people are waiting. Avoid spitting over or towards the tasting table, and follow any instructions from the host or organiser. Different venues have different layouts and expectations, so the local guidance matters more than a universal rule.

It is also acceptable to swallow occasionally if you choose. In a casual tasting, that is a personal decision. In a formal class, competition or professional tasting, follow the organiser’s instructions. Spitting is widely accepted, but it should never be used to shame people who do things differently.

Does spitting remove the alcohol?

No. Spitting can reduce how much alcohol you swallow, but it does not prove that none has entered your body or that you are sober. Alcohol can be absorbed quickly, and only time reduces the amount in your body. The Australian Government also notes that alcohol affects people differently.

So treat spitting as a way to manage a tasting, not as a guarantee of safety. Drink water, take breaks, eat if appropriate and keep track of what you swallow. Most importantly, plan your transport before you begin and never assume that spitting makes it safe or legal to drive.

Frequently asked questions

Is it rude to spit wine?

No. Spitting is normal at many formal, educational and professional tastings. Do it neatly into the designated vessel and follow the venue’s instructions.

What if I miss the spittoon?

Ask for a napkin, wipe up any drips and try again. Moving closer and aiming downwards usually makes the process easier.

Do professional tasters always spit?

Not necessarily. People choose differently, and the setting matters. Spitting is common when many wines are being assessed, but it is not a requirement for being a serious wine drinker.

Can I drive after spitting wine?

Do not make that decision based on having spat. Spitting does not guarantee zero alcohol exposure or that you are safe or legally permitted to drive. Arrange transport in advance if you will be tasting alcohol.