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Everyday Sommelier – Wine Stories with Kristi Mayfield

<p>Ever found yourself staring in the wine aisle at your local grocery store or sitting at a restaurant, totally clueless about which wine to choose? You know what you like when you taste it, but when it’s time to pick a bottle for your next dinner party or match it with a meal, you’re scanning labels, Googling wine pairings, and still second-guessing every choice.<br><br></p><p>But here’s the thing: You don’t need to be a sommelier to enjoy wine confidently. With the right knowledge and a little guidance to understand wine lingo and unlock your own palate, you’ll be able to order at a restaurant without asking for a recommendation or walk into a wine shop and pick a bottle to pair with a meal like a pro.<br><br></p><p>I’m your host, Kristi Mayfield, a certified sommelier who used to be the one staring at the shelf, swapping the bottle I chose for the one someone else recommended because I didn’t trust my own taste. But over the past 5 years, I’ve turned that confusion into expertise, teaching thousands of wine lovers and professionals how to cut through the pretentiousness and complexity of wine so they can confidently choose and enjoy wines they love.<br><br></p><p>In each episode of the podcast, we’ll break down wine into simple, easy-to-understand terms. From regions and styles to winemaking techniques, tasting tips, and wine stories, you’ll get insights from a wine expert, an industry pro, or a wine educator to help you grab a glass and <em>learn wine your way.</em></p><p><br></p><p>#<b>Wineeducation #winepodcast #Winetips #Winetasting #Wineregions #Winepairing #Wineknowledge #Wineexperts #Winestories #Wineindustry #Wineculture</b></p>

Recent Episodes

Eliminate Business Dinner Anxiety With Wine and Etiquette

Eliminate Business Dinner Anxiety With Wine and Etiquette

April 21, 2026 34:09

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Crush business dining anxiety and turn every client dinner into an opportunity for meaningful connection and professional influence. My guest, and etiquette consultant Molly Tomlin, joins me to unpack how high-impact women can transform simple wine and dining skills into a commanding business advantage.

Unleash the power of strategic etiquette at the table—from how to never feel awkward about ordering wine to maintaining presence even during spills or uncomfortable questions. Skip the overwhelm: get actionable tips on managing food choices, taking command as host, handling dietary preferences, and never losing your authority—even in male-dominated settings.

Learn when (and why) to avoid that long pasta, how small talk around wine and art can forge instant connections, and the secret to closing out dinners seamlessly. Build social capital and confidence, whether you’re a non-drinker or the designated wine orderer. When the end goal is client trust, better deals, and unforgettable first impressions, these etiquette strategies are your shortcut.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

  • How to confidently navigate any business dinner: what to avoid, how to host, and how to recover from spills or awkward moments
  • Exact conversation starters (and small talk hacks) that create instant trust using wine, art, and your surroundings
  • Proven techniques for female professionals to lead, influence, and maintain authority at the table
  • Wine etiquette that signals confidence—not guesswork or wasteful spending

TIMESTAMPS

  • 04:28 "Stop Turning Dinners Into Meetings—How to Make Business Dining Social"
  • 10:39 "Avoid These Business Dining Mistakes: What to Never Order or Wear"
  • 14:06 "Projecting Authority as a Woman: Presence, Speech, and the Lipstick Factor"
  • 18:27 "Recover From Awkward Moments—Spills & Difficult Questions With Grace"
  • 22:24 "Seamless Checkouts—Never Fumble the Bill at Business Dinners Again"
  • 25:47 "Master Wine Etiquette—Stay In Control Without Overindulging"

Everyday Sommelier Podcast is turning ONE! Thanks to you, our loyal listeners, we've had a fantastic first year! We're relaunching a few of your favorite episodes in celebration!

We're also announcing the launch of Sip Society Collective where high-impact women can 10X their Social Power Skills through wine. https://sipsocietycollective.com.

Cheers to many more years! Kristi

It's been such a pleasure sharing wine with you this past year! We also want to let you know our INSTAGRAM handle has changed to @kristi_sipsocietycollective - if you are already following, you're good to go. If you haven't followed us yet, now is the time!

Cheers to one year, our launch of Sip Society Collective (https://sipsocietycollective.com) and to learning wine your way! Kristi

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristi_sipsocietycollective

Love the show? Leave a review and let me know!

Visit us at SIP SOCIETY COLLECTIVE

CONNECT WITH KRISTI: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group


Love the EVERYDAY SOMMELIER soundtrack? Follow the amazing Raymond Revel on Instagram!

Inspired by our artwork? Follow the uber talented Sophie Metzger on Instagram!

The Strategy and Artistry of Red Wine Blends

The Strategy and Artistry of Red Wine Blends

April 14, 2026 18:09

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Red wine blends are often misunderstood—are they a last resort for leftover grapes or the winemaker’s secret weapon for crafting unforgettable wines?

In this episode, I dismantle the misconceptions, revealing how blends have shaped the wine world from ancient field blends to today’s Bordeaux and Super Tuscan legends. Explore how intentional blending unlocks consistency, complexity, and a unique expression of terroir in every glass.

Gain wine confidence by understanding why some of the globe’s most celebrated labels rely on blending for superior flavor and stability—think Bordeaux classics, Australian Cab-Shiraz, and trailblazing Super Tuscans.


I'll provide you a roadmap to leveraging blends on your personal wine journey, helping you make empowered choices and command conversations, whether at an important dinner or in your own kitchen. 

Plus, get an inside look at how the Sip Society Collective is revolutionizing wine fluency for high-impact women—making wine accessible, judgement-free, and fun.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

  • The truth behind why winemakers blend and how it impacts quality and taste—not just price.
  • Key history and evolution of red blends from ancient field blend traditions to modern Bordeaux and Super Tuscans.
  • How to use red blends to eliminate wine anxiety and make confident wine selections at any table.
  • Why blending is a strategic tool for wine brands to guarantee consistency, quality, and consumer trust.

TOP 6 TIMESTAMPS:

  • 01:42 – Ancient Roots of Blending: How Field Blends Defined Early Wine
  • 04:06 – Building Complexity: Chateauneuf du Pape’s Blending Revolution
  • 05:08 – Bordeaux Blueprint: Blending for Consistency and Prestige
  • 08:00 – Breaking the Mold: Super Tuscans and the New Era of Red Wine Blends
  • 11:17 – Winemaker’s Two Reasons to Blend: Consistency and Consumer Trust
  • 14:35 – Choose with Confidence: Why Blends Mean Quality, Not Compromise

Everyday Sommelier Podcast is turning ONE! Thanks to you, our loyal listeners, we've had a fantastic first year! We're relaunching a few of your favorite episodes in celebration!

We're also announcing the launch of Sip Society Collective where high-impact women can 10X their Social Power Skills through wine. https://sipsocietycollective.com.

Cheers to many more years! Kristi

It's been such a pleasure sharing wine with you this past year! We also want to let you know our INSTAGRAM handle has changed to @kristi_sipsocietycollective - if you are already following, you're good to go. If you haven't followed us yet, now is the time!

Cheers to one year, our launch of Sip Society Collective (https://sipsocietycollective.com) and to learning wine your way! Kristi

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristi_sipsocietycollective

Love the show? Leave a review and let me know!

Visit us at SIP SOCIETY COLLECTIVE

CONNECT WITH KRISTI: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group


Love the EVERYDAY SOMMELIER soundtrack? Follow the amazing Raymond Revel on Instagram!

Inspired by our artwork? Follow the uber talented Sophie Metzger on Instagram!

Transform Everyday Wine Knowledge Into Empowered Social Capital

Transform Everyday Wine Knowledge Into Empowered Social Capital

January 27, 2026 42:04

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Unlock wine mastery as your hidden leadership skill and social capital advantage! In this episode, I join Cheryl Fischer, host of Mind Your Midlife, to share her journey from defense sales exec to founder of Sip Society Collective, revealing how high-impact women can leverage wine as a strategic power skill. This episode bursts open the gates to accessible wine fluency, breaking free from the elitist, intimidating traditions and replacing them with actionable tools for networking, client dining, and professional presence.

Learn why wine knowledge isn’t reserved for sommeliers—how anyone can build authority, strengthen business relationships, and confidently own any room, whether you drink wine or prefer non-alcoholic options.


Discover how Sip Society Collective transforms wine fluency into empowered social capital for women, with an inclusive approach that meets you where you are today. Find out why confidence, connection, and authentic networking trump technical mastery—and how joining the right community accelerates career growth.


This episode outlines practical steps to turn wine anxiety into influence, create memorable professional moments, and join a new movement of women leaders using wine as their edge.

Thank you Cheryl for having me on Mind Your Midlife - to catch the full episode, listen in to Cheryl's podcast HERE.


BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:


  • The one mindset shift that turns wine-list anxiety into confident connection at any professional dinner
  • How wine fluency can distinguish you and unlock new networking and business opportunities—without snobbery or intimidation
  • Why community and relationship-building through Sip Society Collective accelerate growth and confidence for high-impact women (even non-drinkers!)
  • Step-by-step examples of translating wine knowledge into business success, relationships, and social capital

Top Episode Takeaways and Timestamps:

  1. [00:05:23] Turning Wine Mastery into Social Power—Unlocking Executive Confidence
  2. [00:11:13] How Women Leaders Build Professional Presence with Wine Skills
  3. [00:13:01] Confident Conversations: From Wine Anxiety to Business Relationship Building
  4. [00:24:10] Inclusive Wine Fluency: Non-Drinkers and New Learners Welcome
  5. [00:27:50] Entrepreneur’s Mindset: Overcoming Perfectionism and Building Your Tribe
  6. [00:32:34] Finding Your Career Sweet Spot—Building a High-Impact Community

Everyday Sommelier Podcast is turning ONE! Thanks to you, our loyal listeners, we've had a fantastic first year! We're relaunching a few of your favorite episodes in celebration!

We're also announcing the launch of Sip Society Collective where high-impact women can 10X their Social Power Skills through wine. https://sipsocietycollective.com.

Cheers to many more years! Kristi

It's been such a pleasure sharing wine with you this past year! We also want to let you know our INSTAGRAM handle has changed to @kristi_sipsocietycollective - if you are already following, you're good to go. If you haven't followed us yet, now is the time!

Cheers to one year, our launch of Sip Society Collective (https://sipsocietycollective.com) and to learning wine your way! Kristi

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristi_sipsocietycollective

Love the show? Leave a review and let me know!

Visit us at SIP SOCIETY COLLECTIVE

CONNECT WITH KRISTI: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group


Love the EVERYDAY SOMMELIER soundtrack? Follow the amazing Raymond Revel on Instagram!

Inspired by our artwork? Follow the uber talented Sophie Metzger on Instagram!

Alcohol-Free Wine Is Having It's Moment

Alcohol-Free Wine Is Having It's Moment

January 20, 2026 24:13

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Are you curious about non-alcoholic wine but skeptical of the taste, mouthfeel, and overall quality? Wondering why alcohol-free wines seem pricier and how they compare to traditional wines? 


This episode of Everyday Sommelier dives deep into the world of low- and no-alcohol wines—answering the burning questions wine lovers have and busting the most common myths.

In this episode, I'm breaking down the exact science behind de-alcoholized wines, explaining vacuum distillation, spinning cone, and reverse osmosis—revealing how flavor, aromas, and even sugar content are impacted. You’ll get first-hand tasting insights and discover which wine styles shine in this category. 


Plus, find out the real reason wellness seekers, professionals, and anyone needing a sober lifestyle are turning to zero-alcohol options, including “proxy” wines and botanically-driven blends.

Whether you’re watching your sugar intake, managing allergies, or craving a wine experience on a weekday, this episode arms you with actionable tips to choose the best bottle for your needs. 


You’ll also get my take on upcoming industry trends and why non-alcoholic wines are now a must in high-stakes settings—from business lunches to celebratory brunches.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

  • The real differences in flavor, mouthfeel, and sugar content between de-alcoholized and traditional wines—and what to expect in your glass
  • How non-alcoholic wines are made (and why some cost more than regular wine)—so you can buy with confidence and avoid common pitfalls
  • Solutions for wine lovers with allergies, sensitivities, or wellness goals, including what to look for on labels
  • How to incorporate alcohol-free wines into professional, social, and family settings—empowering your choices without sacrificing enjoyment

Everyday Sommelier Podcast is turning ONE! Thanks to you, our loyal listeners, we've had a fantastic first year! We're relaunching a few of your favorite episodes in celebration!

We're also announcing the launch of Sip Society Collective where high-impact women can 10X their Social Power Skills through wine. https://sipsocietycollective.com.

Cheers to many more years! Kristi

It's been such a pleasure sharing wine with you this past year! We also want to let you know our INSTAGRAM handle has changed to @kristi_sipsocietycollective - if you are already following, you're good to go. If you haven't followed us yet, now is the time!

Cheers to one year, our launch of Sip Society Collective (https://sipsocietycollective.com) and to learning wine your way! Kristi

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristi_sipsocietycollective

Love the show? Leave a review and let me know!

Visit us at SIP SOCIETY COLLECTIVE

CONNECT WITH KRISTI: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group


Love the EVERYDAY SOMMELIER soundtrack? Follow the amazing Raymond Revel on Instagram!

Inspired by our artwork? Follow the uber talented Sophie Metzger on Instagram!

Choosing Your Path From Dry January, Try January, and Mindful Wine Habits

Choosing Your Path From Dry January, Try January, and Mindful Wine Habits

January 6, 2026 19:55

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Struggling with the pressure of Dry January or feeling stuck between social trends and your love of wine? This episode relaunch of Everyday Sommelier with Kristi Mayfield empowers you to rethink restrictive trends like Dry January and Sober October. Dive deep into practical, approachable strategies for creating mindful wine habits—without sacrificing the joy and connection wine brings.

Explore the rise of counter-movements such as Try January and Come Over October, designed for wine lovers who want to explore, not abstain. Kristi Mayfield shares actionable tips for moderating alcohol intake, discovering lower-alcohol options, and creating rituals that make each glass more meaningful. Navigate social pressures, FOMO, and find your path to balanced enjoyment—whether you're aiming for moderation, seeking new wine experiences, or looking to host meaningful gatherings.

If you're a wine enthusiast looking for confidence and control, not just another challenge, this episode offers a judgment-free playbook for learning, connection, and celebration on your terms.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: 

  • How to build mindful wine habits that fit your lifestyle—without feeling left out during Dry January
  • Practical alternatives to 100% abstinence, like Try January, lower-alcohol wines, and wine-based rituals
  • Strategies for balancing social pressure with personal wellness and confidence
  • Empowering approaches to enjoy wine as a social power skill—not just a beverage

Top Timestamps & Titles

00:03:41 – The Social Pressure & FOMO Trap: Why Dry January Isn’t Always the Solution
00:07:32 – Beyond All or Nothing: The Biggest Misconception About Mindful Drinking
00:09:57 – Exploring Try January: A Pathway to Wine Exploration, Not Elimination
00:12:45 – The Power of Connection: How Come Over October Changes the Game
00:13:43 – Practical Tips for Creating Your Own Mindful Wine Rituals
00:16:19 – Your Personal Blueprint: Celebrate Wins & Share Your Journey

Everyday Sommelier Podcast is turning ONE! Thanks to you, our loyal listeners, we've had a fantastic first year! We're relaunching a few of your favorite episodes in celebration!

We're also announcing the launch of Sip Society Collective where high-impact women can 10X their Social Power Skills through wine. https://sipsocietycollective.com.

Cheers to many more years! Kristi

It's been such a pleasure sharing wine with you this past year! We also want to let you know our INSTAGRAM handle has changed to @kristi_sipsocietycollective - if you are already following, you're good to go. If you haven't followed us yet, now is the time!

Cheers to one year, our launch of Sip Society Collective (https://sipsocietycollective.com) and to learning wine your way! Kristi

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristi_sipsocietycollective

Love the show? Leave a review and let me know!

Visit us at SIP SOCIETY COLLECTIVE

CONNECT WITH KRISTI: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group


Love the EVERYDAY SOMMELIER soundtrack? Follow the amazing Raymond Revel on Instagram!

Inspired by our artwork? Follow the uber talented Sophie Metzger on Instagram!

The Hybrid Grape Revolution for Elevating Sparkling, Fortified, and Dessert Wines

The Hybrid Grape Revolution for Elevating Sparkling, Fortified, and Dessert Wines

December 16, 2025 29:14

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Hybrid grapes are unlocking new frontiers in American wine, revolutionizing what’s possible from sparkling and dessert wines—especially from cold climate regions. 

Join me as I uncork the secrets behind high-acid, aromatic varietals like La Crescent and Frontenac, with winemaker Mark Wedge and wine professional James, at the innovative Dancing Dragonfly winery.

Discover how these "new kids on the block” are shaking up the wine scene with traditional-method sparkling wines boasting vibrant acidity and unique flavor profiles that break away from rigid Champagne and Sauternes norms. 

Go behind the scenes on the centuries-old Solera system, and learn why hybrid grapes create dessert wines that balance sweetness, high alcohol, and freshness—winning over even those skeptical of dessert styles.

You'll hear why mastering modern wine knowledge is a practical power skill, not just for sommeliers, but for ambitious professionals looking to level up social and business capital. Experience how embracing regional, innovative winemaking can give you a confident edge at every table.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

  • How hybrid grapes are rewriting the rules for American sparkling and dessert wines, including wine styles you’ve never tried before.
  • Why high acidity and lower tannins in hybrids produce wines ideal for both sipping and food pairing.
  • What the Solera system brings to modern fortified wines and how that tradition merges with cold climate innovation.
  • Actionable ways to use fresh wine knowledge as a strategic social asset—building confidence and influence (not snobbery).

MUST LISTEN TIMESTAMPS:

[00:02:10] Hybrid Grapes—The Secret to Bold New American Sparkling Wine
Why La Crescent and other hybrids are reshaping the sparkling wine landscape in US regions outside California.

[00:06:59] Solera System Reimagined: Making Modern Fortified Dessert Wines
Traditional meets innovation—how the ancient method delivers balanced dessert wines for today’s palates.

[00:17:23] Master Power Pairings: Why Acidity & Aroma Elevate Every Wine Moment
Unlock why high-acidity, aromatic hybrids transform pairing, cocktails and solo sipping—even for skeptics.

[00:21:47] Climate Resilience & Local Winemaking: The Future of Regional Wine
How hybrid varieties are setting the trend for sustainable, adaptable, and unforgettable wine experiences.

[00:24:30] Wine Confidence as a Power Skill: How to Command Any Table
Transform practical wine fluency into social capital and influence as a leader, negotiator, or host.

Everyday Sommelier Podcast is turning ONE! Thanks to you, our loyal listeners, we've had a fantastic first year! We're relaunching a few of your favorite episodes in celebration!

We're also announcing the launch of Sip Society Collective where high-impact women can 10X their Social Power Skills through wine. https://sipsocietycollective.com.

Cheers to many more years! Kristi

It's been such a pleasure sharing wine with you this past year! We also want to let you know our INSTAGRAM handle has changed to @kristi_sipsocietycollective - if you are already following, you're good to go. If you haven't followed us yet, now is the time!

Cheers to one year, our launch of Sip Society Collective (https://sipsocietycollective.com) and to learning wine your way! Kristi

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristi_sipsocietycollective

Love the show? Leave a review and let me know!

Visit us at SIP SOCIETY COLLECTIVE

CONNECT WITH KRISTI: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group


Love the EVERYDAY SOMMELIER soundtrack? Follow the amazing Raymond Revel on Instagram!

Inspired by our artwork? Follow the uber talented Sophie Metzger on Instagram!

Yes, Hybrid Grapes Do Make Good Wine with Dancing Dragonfly

Yes, Hybrid Grapes Do Make Good Wine with Dancing Dragonfly

December 2, 2025 35:03

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Wave goodbye to wine intimidation—this episode of Everyday Sommelier uncorks a future where hybrid grapes and cold climate winemaking take center stage. Yes, you should try them. Now!

Join me as I sits down with James Peterson and Mark Wedge at Dancing Dragonfly Winery in Wisconsin, unlocking the secrets behind critically acclaimed Midwest wines made from grapes like Marquette, Frontenac, La Crescent, and more.

Uncover why traditional vinifera grapes can’t thrive in Wisconsin’s short, icy growing season, and see how innovative hybrid varieties developed by teams like the University of Minnesota empower local wineries to produce bold, balanced, and food-friendly wines with surprising complexity. 

We're diving into the science behind hybridization, the learning curve of typicity, and how Midwest winemakers are rewriting the rules for wine style, blending, and customer experience.

You’ll gain actionable takeaways on how to shop for, taste, and enjoy these rebel-region wines, even if you’re a classic Cabernet or Chardonnay lover. This is your go-to guide for building wine fluency and confidence in one of wine’s fastest-rising movements—minus the snobbery.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

  • Why Midwest wineries rely on hybrid grapes, and the science behind their resilience
  • How to bridge the gap from classic wine preferences to falling in love with new grape varieties
  • What to expect from the acidity, sweetness, and style spectrum of cold climate wines
  • How “wine snobbery” is being replaced by experimentation and genuine wine enjoyment in the Midwest

KEY TIMESTAMPS:

  • [00:06:11]
    Midwest Winters vs. Wine Grapes: The Survival Challenge
    Why traditional vinifera wines aren’t viable in Wisconsin, and how hybrids win the climate battle.
  • [00:10:13]
    Are Hybrid Grapes Always Foxy? Debunking Common Tasting Myths
    Addressing taste misconceptions and revealing today’s quality improvements in hybrid winemaking.
  • [00:14:24]
    How Midwest Wines Redefine Typicity and Wine Style
    Exploring the new rules and creative freedoms as winemakers pioneer style profiles for unknown grapes.
  • [00:18:06]
    Acidity, Sweetness, and What to Expect in Your Glass
    A breakdown of the Midwest flavor profile—why sugar balances acidity, and what it means for food pairings.
  • [00:25:51]
    Pair Like a Pro: Turning Hybrid Wines into Your Dinner Power Move
    How to confidently pair high-acid, hybrid wines with modern meals, enhancing both flavor and confidence.
  • [00:30:03]
    Rebel Wine Regions: Why You Need to Explore Hybrids Now
    Smart shopping advice for consumers ready to expand beyond the usual suspects and support Midwest wine.

Everyday Sommelier Podcast is turning ONE! Thanks to you, our loyal listeners, we've had a fantastic first year! We're relaunching a few of your favorite episodes in celebration!

We're also announcing the launch of Sip Society Collective where high-impact women can 10X their Social Power Skills through wine. https://sipsocietycollective.com.

Cheers to many more years! Kristi

It's been such a pleasure sharing wine with you this past year! We also want to let you know our INSTAGRAM handle has changed to @kristi_sipsocietycollective - if you are already following, you're good to go. If you haven't followed us yet, now is the time!

Cheers to one year, our launch of Sip Society Collective (https://sipsocietycollective.com) and to learning wine your way! Kristi

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristi_sipsocietycollective

Love the show? Leave a review and let me know!

Visit us at SIP SOCIETY COLLECTIVE

CONNECT WITH KRISTI: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group


Love the EVERYDAY SOMMELIER soundtrack? Follow the amazing Raymond Revel on Instagram!

Inspired by our artwork? Follow the uber talented Sophie Metzger on Instagram!

Hidden Cost of Sparkling Wine With Torr Na Lochs Winery

Hidden Cost of Sparkling Wine With Torr Na Lochs Winery

November 18, 2025 45:29

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Forget what you know about Champagne and mass-produced bubbly—Texas is rewriting the rules with grit, creativity, and uncompromising passion. In this episode, Kristi Mayfield goes deep into the real story inside a bottle of Torr Na Loch’s traditional method sparkling wine.

If you’ve ever questioned why some sparkling wines are $10 and others command triple digits, you’ll uncover the true, labor-intensive journey that creates those signature tiny bubbles and creamy texture. Blake DeBerry and Colby O'Brien of Torn Na Loch share how they overcame million-dollar equipment costs, leaning into their engineering backgrounds to invent a made-in-Texas, hand-riddled approach—cutting startup costs by over 90%—and creating a boutique sparkling you can actually taste the effort in.

Learn how Malvasia Bianca grapes are hand-harvested and nurtured for acidity, why every bottle is touched by human hands up to 86 times, and how artisan riddling racks and cattle dosers for dosage dosing become tools of the Texas wine revolution. Understand how manual production and long aging translate to a richer, more meaningful glass (and a much fairer price tag).

This episode is a must-listen for wine lovers looking to decode wine pricing, discover Texas craft winemaking, or simply sip with more confidence—knowing exactly what’s gone into their glass.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

  • Why hand-crafted, traditional method sparkling wine costs more—and why it matters for taste and quality
  • How Torn Na Loch engineered their own production revolution for Texas sparkling wine, reducing costs and maximizing flavor
  • The behind-the-scenes secrets of riddling, aging, and the sheer number of skilled touch points in every bottle
  • How sparkling wine is far more than just a celebration treat—it's a story of passion, innovation, and Texas grit you can taste

Episode Timestamps:

[00:02:30] “From Red to Bubbles: Why Torn Na Loch Chose the Hardest Wine to Make in Texas”
Discover why a Texas winery ditched convention and bet big on traditional sparkling wine, despite the region’s reputation for bold reds.

[00:07:14] “Million-Dollar Equipment—Or DIY: How Innovation Slashed Costs & Created a Revolution”
Learn how high equipment costs almost ended the dream, and how DIY ingenuity saved the day and changed Texas wine history.

[00:15:01] “Hand Riddling and the 86-Touch Process: What Really Sets Artisanal Sparkling Apart”
Explore the manual journey—riddling racks, twice-daily turns, and the secret to that creamy bubble mousse you only get from the traditional Champagne method.

[00:23:13] “Disgorgement by Design: How Texas Winemakers Freeze, Dosage, and Top Every Bottle”
See how custom-built gadgets (and a little farm wisdom) make each bottle absolutely unique, from yeast pucks to precise sugar dosing.

[00:34:51] “True Cost Decoded: What Goes Into Your Bottle and Why It’s Worth It”
Demystifying the price tag—compare traditional method and Charmat, understand real labor costs, and get empowered to buy better sparkling wine.

Everyday Sommelier Podcast is turning ONE! Thanks to you, our loyal listeners, we've had a fantastic first year! We're relaunching a few of your favorite episodes in celebration!

We're also announcing the launch of Sip Society Collective where high-impact women can 10X their Social Power Skills through wine. https://sipsocietycollective.com.

Cheers to many more years! Kristi

It's been such a pleasure sharing wine with you this past year! We also want to let you know our INSTAGRAM handle has changed to @kristi_sipsocietycollective - if you are already following, you're good to go. If you haven't followed us yet, now is the time!

Cheers to one year, our launch of Sip Society Collective (https://sipsocietycollective.com) and to learning wine your way! Kristi

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristi_sipsocietycollective

Love the show? Leave a review and let me know!

Visit us at SIP SOCIETY COLLECTIVE

CONNECT WITH KRISTI: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group


Love the EVERYDAY SOMMELIER soundtrack? Follow the amazing Raymond Revel on Instagram!

Inspired by our artwork? Follow the uber talented Sophie Metzger on Instagram!

Rethink Champagne Prestige From Pedestal to Pizza Night with David Afariat

Rethink Champagne Prestige From Pedestal to Pizza Night with David Afariat

November 4, 2025 31:28

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Ever felt Champagne prestige was out of reach or reserved only for special occasions? This episode dismantles the intimidation factor and reframes Champagne as an approachable drink for any day of the week. Kristi Mayfield is joined by David Aferiat, luxury Champagne importer, who reveals why you should enjoy bubbles with pizza, chips, or even burgers—not just weddings and milestones. 

Dig into the secrets behind grower Champagne, what separates it from the big brands, and why sustainable, organic farming makes a difference in taste and headache-free enjoyment. Learn procuring tips, label-reading strategies, distribution hurdles, and the crucial shipping truth that impacts every bottle. 

Discover how Champagne’s history shaped its “special occasion only” reputation and actionable steps to unlock your own Champagne journey. As always, sip smarter with Kristi’s top empowering takeaways for high-impact wine fluency.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

  • Why Champagne’s reputation as “special occasion only” actually holds you back—and how to enjoy bubbles any night.
  • The difference between big brand Champagne and authentic grower Champagne (and how to shop with confidence).
  • Secrets of organic, sustainable farming practices that impact taste, health, and your next wine headache.
  • Actionable steps for sourcing better Champagne, making informed buying choices, and pairing bubbles with everything from steak to potato chips.

Episode Timestamps:

  • Unlocking Champagne’s Everyday Charm (00:00:00)
    Rethink sparkling wine: how to pair Champagne with pizza, burgers, and weekday life.
  • Deconstructing Champagne Intimidation: Price, Perception & Marketing (00:02:31)
    Why Champagne feels unreachable—and real reasons Americans hesitate to drink it more often.
  • Grower Champagne vs. Big Brands: Taste the Difference (00:08:19)
    Learn why authentic grower Champagne redefines flavor and experience compared to mass-market bottles.
  • How to Shop Smarter for Champagne (and Avoid a Headache) (00:13:59)
  • Insider tips from a luxury importer on label reading, distribution pitfalls, and shipping risks.
  • A History Lesson: Champagne’s Prestige, Legends & Everyday Reality (00:20:03)
    How monks, Napoleon, and modern marketing shaped Champagne’s reputation—and why you should reclaim it.
  • Top Tips to Expand Your Champagne Journey—No More Waiting for ‘Someday’ (00:23:27)
    Five actionable strategies for confident Champagne exploration, making every day worth celebrating.

Everyday Sommelier Podcast is turning ONE! Thanks to you, our loyal listeners, we've had a fantastic first year! We're relaunching a few of your favorite episodes in celebration!

We're also announcing the launch of Sip Society Collective where high-impact women can 10X their Social Power Skills through wine. https://sipsocietycollective.com.

Cheers to many more years! Kristi

It's been such a pleasure sharing wine with you this past year! We also want to let you know our INSTAGRAM handle has changed to @kristi_sipsocietycollective - if you are already following, you're good to go. If you haven't followed us yet, now is the time!

Cheers to one year, our launch of Sip Society Collective (https://sipsocietycollective.com) and to learning wine your way! Kristi

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristi_sipsocietycollective

Love the show? Leave a review and let me know!

Visit us at SIP SOCIETY COLLECTIVE

CONNECT WITH KRISTI: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group


Love the EVERYDAY SOMMELIER soundtrack? Follow the amazing Raymond Revel on Instagram!

Inspired by our artwork? Follow the uber talented Sophie Metzger on Instagram!

Are Old Vine Wines Really Better? Separating Fact from Fiction

Are Old Vine Wines Really Better? Separating Fact from Fiction

October 14, 2025 18:32

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What does "Old Vine" on a wine label really promise? Is “Old Vine Zinfandel” truly better, or is it just marketing? In this wine stories episode of Everyday Sommelier, host Kristi Mayfield uncorks the truth about old vine wine, decoding industry buzzwords and cutting through the confusion surrounding one of wine’s most romantic—yet undefined—labels.

Explore why “Old Vine” isn’t a globally or legally defined term, and how this creates frustration for everyday wine lovers, like you, just trying to sip smarter. Kristi reveals the real impact of vine age on wine quality, aroma, and price, and explains how different wine regions—from California to Spain and Australia—are starting to regulate the term to protect heritage vineyards.

Learn how “Old Vine” wines are farmed, the dangers they face, and why you may be paying more for a label rather than superior flavor. You'll gain expert strategies and sommelier tips for decoding everyday wine labels, understanding heritage, and making confident wine choices in a world full of misleading terminology.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: 

  • The truth about "Old Vine"—why it’s often just a marketing term and not a guarantee of quality. 
  • How vine age really affects wine texture, concentration, and style (and when it doesn’t). 
  • Proven tips for reading “Old Vine” labels and finding real heritage wines, not hype. 
  • What wine regions around the world are doing to protect and define old vine vineyards.

Episode Timestamps: 

00:04:00 - Why “Old Vine” Means Nothing Without Context
00:06:08 - How Old Vines Can Impact Wine Texture and Flavor
00:08:21 - Why Many Old Vineyards Get Replanted—And The Risk to Quality
00:12:58 - Regions Fighting Back: How Wine Laws Are Changing for Old Vines
00:14:19 - Price vs. Age: Don’t Get Fooled by Expensive Old Vine Labels

Everyday Sommelier Podcast is turning ONE! Thanks to you, our loyal listeners, we've had a fantastic first year! We're relaunching a few of your favorite episodes in celebration!

We're also announcing the launch of Sip Society Collective where high-impact women can 10X their Social Power Skills through wine. https://sipsocietycollective.com.

Cheers to many more years! Kristi

It's been such a pleasure sharing wine with you this past year! We also want to let you know our INSTAGRAM handle has changed to @kristi_sipsocietycollective - if you are already following, you're good to go. If you haven't followed us yet, now is the time!

Cheers to one year, our launch of Sip Society Collective (https://sipsocietycollective.com) and to learning wine your way! Kristi

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristi_sipsocietycollective

Love the show? Leave a review and let me know!

Visit us at SIP SOCIETY COLLECTIVE

CONNECT WITH KRISTI: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group


Love the EVERYDAY SOMMELIER soundtrack? Follow the amazing Raymond Revel on Instagram!

Inspired by our artwork? Follow the uber talented Sophie Metzger on Instagram!