09/06/06 Wine Tasting in Public

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran and it is time for us to visit the topic of wine tasting in public again, just for review. If you are venturing out to visit wineries this harvest season or attending consumer wine tasting events; I want to offer some helpful hints about proper wine tasting etiquette. Going to a wine tasting, it may seem simple, and it is easy, and you should have fun. However, just like golf or tennis there are some rules of etiquette. First, and foremost, never wear perfume or aftershave! No fragrances at all. People are trying to smell the wine and very few things interfere with that more than cologne. As I always tell you 70  80 percent of your ability to perceive taste comes from your sense of smell. Next  keep in mind it doesn't take more than an ounce to an ounce and a half to get a good taste. Please don't park yourself in front of the table or tasting bar. When your taste has been poured, step away, take your time examining, smelling and tasting the wine. If you elect to spit the taste out, then step back up to the bar and carefully spit into the spittoon or dump bucket that is provided. Make sure that you aren't spitting or dumping into the water pitcher. Feel free to ask questions. If you're tasting seriously then make a few notes for future reference. It is nice to have a drink of room temperature water after each taste. And finally be aware of your consumption and preferably have a designated driver. Remember to send your wine questions to Linda at Vine to Wine dot net and tank you for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.