Ever feel overwhelmed when handed the wine list at a business dinner, worried about making the wrong choice—especially when it comes to tannin in wine? This episode of Everyday Sommelier with Kristi Mayfield dives deep into what tannins really are, why they’re not the enemy of great wine, and how understanding them can become your superpower at any table. Kristi shatters the myth that high-tannin wines are best avoided and empowers you to explore your personal tannin taste spectrum with actionable strategies.
You’ll learn how tannins work, why they matter for both red and certain white wines, how to read any wine list for tannin clues, and why traditional pairings like steak and Cabernet Sauvignon are backed by science—not just snobbery. Plus, Kristi reveals a simple three-glass test you can try at home to pinpoint your own tannin preference—no memorizing grape varieties required.
Walk away with practical tools to decode wine lists, make memorable, confident wine selections, and unlock a new level of enjoyment and expertise, whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just want to impress at your next business dinner.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
- How tannins in wine actually work and why they’re essential—not something to fear
- Tips to decode wine lists using grape, region, and vintage for tannin levels
- The three-glass tannin test to find your personal tannin sweet spot
- Why food and wine pairing with tannins is more than tradition—it's science-backed
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 – When Tannin Feels Like a Trap: Turning Wine List Anxiety Into Mastery
04:05 – Unlocking the Mystery: What Tannins in Wine Really Are—And Why They Matter
06:35 – How to Decode Tannin Clues: Grape, Region, and Age Secrets for Every Wine List
08:45 – The Science Behind Perfect Wine Pairings: Tannins, Fat, and Flavor
12:41 – The Three-Glass Tannin Test: Find Your Personal Wine Preference at Home
14:48 – Busting the Tannin Headache Myth: The Truth About Health and Enjoyment
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