10. Evaluating Wine Using, the SAT & Why Spitting is Important

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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.

Resources

• SAT Resources:

• WSET Level 1 SAT

• WSET Level 2 SAT

• WSET Level 3 SAT

• Newsletter Sign-Up: Click here to join the Wine Educate newsletter for exclusive study tools, tips, and content not available anywhere else.

• 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.

What’s in This Episode?

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.

Key Takeaways:

• 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.