True marketing isn't a flashy label on a supermarket shelf; it is an authentic story that creates a deep connection between people. That is why wine salons offer much more than regular shopping. Got an invitation to a wine event but feeling anxious because you don't know the etiquette? At the Alps Discovery platform, we always emphasize: a wine festival is not a closed club for snobs, but a friendly fair where you can learn the story of each bottle directly from its creator. This detailed guide will tell you how to taste wine step-by-step, in what order to taste drinks so as not to overwhelm your taste buds, and what common mistakes beginners should avoid. Before your first visit, browse our curated wine collection to tune your taste buds to the right frequency.
Table of Contents:
- Step-by-step Tasting Etiquette: How to Behave at a Wine Salon
- The Correct Tasting Order: From Light Whites to Bold Reds
- Mini-Guide: How Glass Shape Affects Wine Perception
- The Biggest Mistakes to Avoid at Wine Festivals
- FAQ: Answering Questions About Swiss Wine Events
Step-by-step Tasting Etiquette: How to Behave at a Wine Salon
Mastering the basic rules of professional tasting will help you feel confident in front of winemakers and get the most pleasure out of every sip.
Color, aroma, taste, and spittoons
At the entrance, you will receive a tasting glass with which you can move freely between the stands. When approaching a winemaker, do not hesitate to ask for recommendations. You will be poured only a tasting portion (about 30-50 ml). First, swirl the glass to saturate the wine with oxygen, take a deep breath of the aroma, and then take a small sip, as if "chewing" the drink. One of the most important rules that surprises beginners: there are special buckets (spittoons) on every table. Spitting wine after you have evaluated its taste is a sign of professionalism that allows you to keep a clear mind and fresh receptors. To ensure such events are held at the highest level and safely, the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) sets strict global standards for their conduct.
The Correct Tasting Order: From Light Whites to Bold Reds
Chaotically tasting wines of different styles will quickly "clog" your receptors, so it is crucial to follow the classic tasting order while walking around the hall.
The golden rule of moving between stands
Never start with heavy red wines, otherwise, you will not feel the delicate notes of a light white afterward. The correct route at a salon looks like this: first sparkling wines, then light and fresh whites (for example, Swiss Chasselas). Next, move on to denser white wines aged in oak. After that comes the turn of rosé wines, then light reds (Pinot Noir), and only at the end—rich, tannic red wines (like Syrah or Cabernet). The tasting should always end with sweet dessert wines. We carefully select winemakers who are masters at creating each of these styles; you can learn more about our selection criteria and philosophy on our About Us page.
Mini-Guide: How Glass Shape Affects Wine Perception
Although festivals often provide one universal glass, understanding proper glassware will help you better unlock the potential of the bottles you buy for home.
Tulips versus wide bowls
The shape of the glass directly guides the flow of wine to specific areas of your tongue and concentrates the aromas. For light white wines, a narrow tulip-shaped glass is ideal: it keeps the drink cool and directs delicate floral notes straight to the nose. For red wines rich in tannins, a glass with a wide, voluminous bowl is necessary. The large surface area in contact with the air allows the wine to breathe, softening its texture and revealing a complex bouquet. For hospitality industry professionals looking to perfectly pair glass shapes with premium wines in their establishments, we offer customized solutions through our B2B contact page.
The Biggest Mistakes to Avoid at Wine Festivals
Certain common habits can ruin the wine experience for both you and those around you, so they should be left at the salon doors.
Perfumes, incorrect grip, and overconsumption
The first and biggest mistake is using perfume or cologne. Strong scents completely overpower the subtle aroma of the wine in your glass and bother the people nearby. The second typical mistake is holding the glass by the bowl itself. Your hands quickly heat the wine, changing its flavor profile; always hold the glass exclusively by the stem. And finally, trying to drink every poured drop to the bottom will quickly lead to intoxication. Do not hesitate to pour the leftovers from your glass into the bucket before moving to the next stand.
FAQ: Answering Questions About Swiss Wine Events
Do I have to pay for each tasting at Swiss salons?
Usually no. Most wine festivals operate on a single entrance ticket system. You pay at the entrance, receive a tasting glass, and can taste wines for free at any stand. Payment is only required if you decide to buy a whole bottle to take home.
What is the accepted dress code at such events in Switzerland?
Choose a "smart casual" style. You should look neat, but most importantly—feel as comfortable as possible, since you will have to stand and walk for several hours in a row. Comfortable shoes are your best friend at a wine salon.
How to refresh receptors between different wine varieties?
Drink plenty of plain still water. There are also always pieces of plain bread or neutral crackers on every stand. Eat some bread between the transition from white wine to red to "cleanse" your tongue and prepare it for new tastes.
Conclusion
- Start your tasting with light white wines and gradually move to heavy reds and sweet desserts.
- Always hold the glass by the stem to avoid heating the drink, and do not wear perfume before the event.
- Do not hesitate to use spittoons and pour out the leftovers—this is a normal practice for professionals.
What to do next?
A wine salon is the best playground for those who appreciate true stories, great drinks, and interesting conversations. There is absolutely no reason to feel insecure! We invite you to apply your new etiquette knowledge at the upcoming Salon Divinum event. In the meantime, you can easily host your own mini-tasting at home—just choose a few interesting bottles from our exclusive collection, invite your friends, and start discovering new flavors!
