LIFESTYLE: Spit Backwards? Power Tasting Tips

If you have not already figured it out, I love wine tasting, touring and everything surrounding the business and hospitality of wine.  Years ago when I first recognized my lick-lipping appreciation and enthusiasm, I was at an Australian wine tasting event in Woodinville, WA.  I was still trying to figure out my pace, tune my senses and figure out the difference which made me slow-down and savor or swirl, spit and move on.   I began discussing this with the representative who was pouring the Yellow Tail Chardonnay (it was the first year of it's mass market release) and the advice received has stuck with me for over a decade, "If you like it just spit backwards."

Brilliant!  That simple advice has eased a lot of overthinking and allowed me to enjoy the wine tasting experience much more.   While this is a simple and personal experience that I don't expect will translate to everyone, I have also learned many other strategies to make the most our of your wine tasting experience:

1. Get a Brochure.  Review the options available and make a decision to taste those wines/varietals/regions that intrigue you most.  Figure out opening and closing times and schedule the route you are going to take.  This applies to tasting events with rows of vendors or on wine trails in a geogrpahic area.
2. Create an Outline.  This can be either a decision to taste all reds, whites or blends.  Just figure out where the winemakers with the wine you want to taste are and go in that direction.
3. Spit.  I know what you are thinking, but if you are goal is to truly taste a wide array and focus on the quaility and taste you are searching for, this is not optional. You can't expect to taste more than a dozen wines in an efficient way without it, otherwise, you will get tipsy.
4. Varietal Vertical.  Try not to mix different grape varietals.  If you start with Pinot Gris and then move to Cabernet Franc, your palate will be shot.  Stick with one varietal, for example, Viognier.  If you have made an agenda then go to all of the producers of Viogniers and then move on to your next choice, say Pinot Noir, even if you re-visit the same producer at a later time.  Move from lighter to mid-weight and then richer as you move along.
5. Keep Notes.  Jot down a few key word reminders of the characteristics, likes and dislikes you find with each wine.  I have a simple 4 stay rating system and only make a few notes as it relates to the my perceived value of the wine.  This is unique to you and is what makes the love of wine such a unique experience.
6. Take a Break.  Sit down, visit with other people and relax and enjoy the experience.  I would encourage consciencely having water every hour or enjoying a cup of coffee.  Not only does it help your palate transion, but it keeps you hydrated.  Avoid soda or sweet drinks as this will throw your palate off.
7. Know When to Say When.   You should know when it is time to stop.  Either your palate is just shot or you're begin feeling that you have just had enough.  Unfortuantely, all good things must come to an end and when all the wines start tasting like the last one, you should know your done.

I realize this might sound a bit stringent and believe me, I realize it all depends on the event and motivation behind your experience.  My only wish is to hopefully provide some experiental advice based on the countless tastings I've attended.