Wine Tasting Etiquette at Bordeaux Châteaux
Spitting is professional etiquette at tastings, and winery staff will not judge you for it. There’s a small bucket or crachoir (spittoon) at the tasting counter, and other tasters around you will be using it too. If you swallow every pour over 8 wines, you’ll be intoxicated by the end of the tour, which ruins the experience and the drive back. Spitting lets you taste the wine—its flavour, its finish, its structure—without the alcohol load. This is how professionals and serious tasters do it.
When you taste, take a small sip (thumb-nail amount), swirl it in your mouth to aerate it, and assess the flavour. Then spit or swallow. The guide will tell you what to look for: the colour, the smell (called the "nose"), the palate, the finish. Listen, ask questions, and take notes if you want.
Hold the glass by the stem, not the bowl. Your hand warms the wine if you hold the bowl, and it leaves fingerprints. The stem is the right place.
Tipping in France is optional because service is included. If your guide was excellent and you had a great time, €5–10 is a generous tip and will be appreciated. Never feel obligated. On group tours, tipping the guide is customary but not expected.
At the end of most tastings, the winery will encourage you to buy a bottle. You are not obligated. If you enjoyed a wine and want to take it home, that’s the right time. If not, thank the staff and leave. Most tours include a shop visit, and the producer is used to the fact that some visitors don’t buy.
Spit if you’re tasting 6+ wines. Swirl and smell before you taste. Ask the guide questions. Tip optional. No strong perfume. You’ll be fine.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to spit at a wine tasting?
Yes, it's normal and expected. Crachoirs (spittoons) are provided at every tasting counter. Spitting lets you taste multiple wines without getting intoxicated. Staff will not judge you. It's the professional move.
Should I swallow or spit?
If you're tasting 3 wines, swallowing is fine. If you're tasting 8+, spitting is wise—you'll stay sober and remember the flavours better. Many tasters mix: spit for 4–5 wines, then swallow the one they like best.
Do I tip the guide or winery staff?
Tipping in France is optional because service is included in the tour price. If your guide was excellent, €5–10 is appreciated but not required. Don't feel guilty for not tipping.
Am I obligated to buy wine at the end of the tour?
No. You're a guest. If you loved a wine, that's when you buy. If not, thank them and leave. Producers expect that some tasters don't purchase.