Why Drinking Water Before Wine May Dull Your Tasting Experience

Sarah Looper, a sommelier and wine educator in New York, warns that drinking water before tasting wine can interfere with the wine’s authentic taste profile. She explains that the initial sip sets the tasting tone and that smelling the wine while the palate is still neutral enhances retronasal olfaction. Looper points out that prior consumption of sugary or highly acidic beverages can “jack” the palate, making accurate evaluation difficult.

Instead of immediate water, she recommends allowing a brief pause after the first sip to let the brain adapt before the second and third sips. Looper also mentions her own routine of brushing teeth early, drinking black coffee, and limiting other palate influences before professional tastings. While staying hydrated remains important, she stresses patience over quick palate resets for a fuller wine experience.