Send us a text

Wondering why the Sauvignon Blanc wine style you pick never tastes the same twice? If you’ve ever grabbed a bottle expecting vibrant citrus and got stone fruit—or vice versa—this episode is for you. Kristi Mayfield, host of Everyday Sommelier, unpacks the three major Sauvignon Blanc styles: New Zealand’s zesty citrus, a lush oak-aged warm climate version, and France’s mineral-driven Sancerre.

Unravel how key factors like climate, winemaking method, and blending dramatically change a wine—even when “Sauvignon Blanc” is the only thing on the label. Learn why reading wine labels is a guessing game and why region often matters more than grape variety. Kristi arms you with simple strategies to crack the code, taste like a pro, and finally choose bottles you’ll love every time—without fear of wasting money or guessing wrong in the wine aisle.

Perfect for anyone seeking real-world wine knowledge—minus the snobbery—this episode is packed with actionable tips, region recommendations, and a roadmap to track your preferences for every grape (not just Sauv Blanc).

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

• Why Sauvignon Blanc can taste radically different depending on region and winemaking—even with the same grape
• The three biggest mistakes wine lovers make when shopping by varietal labels
• How to decode regional clues for your perfect Sauvignon Blanc style (think Sancerre, New Zealand, Napa).
• Kristi’s top strategies to track what you love and avoid wine-buying disappointment.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:01:00 — Wine Label Lies: Why Grape Alone Won’t Tell You the Style
00:03:30 — Unlocking Sauvignon Blanc: Climate, Oak & Blending Explained
00:06:45 — The Pain Points of Wine Shopping: How to Stop Wasting Money on Bottles You Don’t Love
00:09:50 — Taste-Test Like a Pro: The Side-by-Side Sauvignon Blanc Method
00:10:50 — Master Regions, Master Your Palate: Using Geography for Wine Success
00:11:50 — Finding Affordable Alternatives: Sancerre vs. Pouilly Fumé vs. Napa Sauvignon Blanc

Liked this episode? Share it and tag me @kristieverydaysommelier

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

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!