Proper Etiquette When Visiting Traverse City Vineyards
Proper Etiquette When Visiting Traverse City Vineyards
A number of the guests that we at Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours have had the pleasure of taking to Traverse City Vineyards have never gone to a vineyard or winery before. Because of this, they often have a lot of questions about what is acceptable behavior and what they should and should not do while there. Below we will cover what is proper etiquette when visiting one of the many vineyards in this beautiful area of our state, starting with the most common question of all:
Do I Really Have To Spit?
Spitting goes against what we feel we should naturally do while at a wine tasting. Not only have you likely been taught that spitting is uncouth, but you have also paid money to visit this vineyard and drink these wines.
If you choose to swallow the wine you are tasting, no one will be sending offended glares your way. However, there are three reasons why spitting is ideal:
- The more wines you drink, the less sound your judgment will be. Not only will the flavors remain in your mouth for longer, but also the alcohol intake can interfere with your judgment.
- You do not need to swallow to taste the wine completely. Leaving the wine in your mouth for up to ten seconds while drawing in a bit of air will do.
- The more wine you drink, the more inebriated you will become. Fortunately, we at Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours take care of the driving for you, so you do not need to be concerned about getting from point “A” to point “B.” We will even pick you up from your home so you do not need to worry about how you will get home once the tour is over.
What’s with the Gargling?
While you are at one of the vineyards we take you to, you may hear some gurgling or slurping sounds coming from some of the other guests. These individuals are not being rude and are only trying to enhance their ability to taste the wine.
The gargling and gurgling sounds are not necessary, however, to fully taste the wine. Gently sucking in air while you hold the wine in your mouth will suffice.
Smoking Is Not Permitted
Not only is smoking not permitted in any of our buses, limos, and other vehicles, but also it is often not permitted at any of the Traverse City vineyards you will visit. This is because our sense of smell is important in being able to fully taste and appreciate a wine. If you smoke, you will not only be ruining your own ability to completely taste and enjoy a wine, but smoking can also interfere with the sense of smell of other guests at the vineyard.
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