What is "degustation"

Degustation \Deg`us*ta"tion\, n. [L. degustatio: cf. F. d['e]gustation.] (Physiol.) Tasting; the appreciation of sapid qualities by the taste organs.
--Bp. Hall.

1650s, from Latin degustationem (nominative degustatio) "a tasting," noun of action from past participle stem of degustare "to take a taste from, sample," from de- (see de-) + gustare "to taste" (see gusto).

n. tasting, especially as a form of careful appreciation

n. taking a small amount into the mouth to test its quality; "cooking was fine but it was the savoring that he enjoyed most" [syn: tasting, savoring, savouring, relishing]

Dégustation is a culinary term meaning a careful, appreciative tasting of various foods and focusing on the gustatory system, the senses, high culinary art and good company. Dégustation is more likely to involve sampling small portions of all of a chef's signature dishes in one sitting. Usually consisting of eight or more courses, it may be accompanied by a matching wine degustation which complements each dish.