Welcome to the Wine Educate Podcast!
In this episode, host Joanne Close dives into the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT) and its role in wine education. Joanne also covers the often-overlooked but essential practice of spitting in wine tastings—why it matters and how to do it effectively.

• SAT Resources:

• • WSET Level 1 SAT

  • WSET Level 2 SAT

  • WSET Level 3 SAT

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• Learn More About Classes: Visit our website for details on upcoming WSET classes.

• Discovery Call: Schedule a call with Joanne to discuss your wine education goals.

1. The WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT):

• What is the SAT?

• • Created by the WSET in 1969 as a structured, objective framework for wine tasting.

  • Used by over 100,000 students annually in 70+ countries.

• Why is it important?

• • Ensures consistent and clear observations.

  • Helps identify grape variety, climate, winemaking techniques, and quality.

  • Builds confidence and analytical skills essential for exams and professional practice.

• A Detective’s Approach:

• • Think critically about wine’s components and trust your observations.

  • Avoid trying to force conclusions before you’ve completed your tasting notes.

2. Breaking Down the SAT – Appearance, Nose, Palate:

• Appearance:

• • Assess clarity, intensity, and color under proper lighting.

  • Example: A pale ruby wine may suggest a thin-skinned grape like Pinot Noir or Gamay.

• Nose:

• • Focus on aroma intensity and characteristics: primary, secondary, and tertiary.

  • Pro tip: Spend extra time on the nose before tasting; it reveals so much.

• Palate:

• • Structural components and where to detect them:

  • • Sweetness: Tip of the tongue.

    • Acidity: Tingling on the sides of the tongue and salivary glands.

    • Tannin: Drying sensation on gums and teeth.

    • Alcohol: Warmth in the back of the throat or slight nasal "sting."

    • Body: Weight or texture of the wine.

3. Why Spitting is Important:

• Professional Tasting Practice:

• • Avoid palate fatigue and overconsumption.

  • Essential for evaluating multiple wines, especially at trade events or exams.

• Tips for Spitting Effectively:

• • Bring your own spit cup (pro tip: a Mardi Gras cup works perfectly in New Orleans!).

  • Practice at home to build confidence.

  • Don’t feel self-conscious—spitting is standard in professional settings.

• For WSET Students:

• • Critical for Level 3 exams: Spit during the tasting to stay sharp for the 2-hour theory portion.

• The SAT provides a structured approach to wine tasting that grows in complexity as you progress through WSET levels.

• Spitting is an essential skill to maintain focus, avoid palate fatigue, and ensure objectivity.

Episode Summary:
In Episode 9 of the Wine Educate Podcast, Joanne Close explores how external factors can significantly impact your wine tasting experience. From lighting and temperature to the glassware you use, creating a proper tasting environment is essential for both objective analysis and enjoyment. Designed especially for WSET students, this episode emphasizes the importance of preparing both your setting and yourself to maximize tasting accuracy and success.

• Download the 250 Free Level 1 Flashcards

• Learn more about upcoming classes at Wine Educate

1. Why Your Tasting Environment Matters:

   • How external factors like smells, sounds, and distractions influence your perception of wine.

   • The importance of creating a neutral, consistent space for tasting.

2. The Ideal Tasting Environment:

   • Neutral Space: Avoid distractions, strong odors (e.g., perfumes, food), and scented items.

   • Lighting: Use natural or white light to evaluate wine appearance properly.

   • Temperature: Maintain a comfortable room temperature (~68°F) and serve wine at its ideal temperature.

   • Space: Ensure adequate room for glasses, notes, and comfortable seating.

3. Preparing Yourself for Tasting:

   • Stay hydrated: Dehydration reduces saliva production, affects aroma detection, and exaggerates alcohol perception.

   • Avoid palate disruptors: Neutralize your palate by drinking water or eating plain crackers before tasting.

4. Glassware Tips:

   • Use clean, unscented glassware to avoid unwanted aromas.

   • Suitable shapes like ISO standard tasting glasses help focus aromas and maintain consistency.

5. Practical Tips for Success:

   • Why spitting during tastings helps with clarity and focus (hint: stay tuned for the next episode).

   • The importance of standardizing your tasting practices for WSET success.

• Assess your current tasting environment.

• Identify a few simple changes to create a more neutral and conducive space for wine tasting.

• Download the 250 Free Level 1 Flashcards

• Learn more about upcoming classes at Wine Educate

Connect with Us:

• Visit our website: Wine Educate

• Email Joanne: joanne@wineeducate.com

Outro:
Thank you for listening to this episode of the Wine Educate Podcast! Don’t forget to tune in next week for a discussion on the Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT) and why spitting is so important.

Cheers,
Joanne