Ever wondered why wine lists feel so intimidating? Or whether that £7 bottle is actually any good? Tom Gilbey—blind tasting expert, social media sensation, and author of the new book Thirsty—joins us to demystify the world of wine with warmth, wit, and zero pretension. In this episode, Tom shares how a freezing ice bath video accidentally launched his viral wine education journey, why his family's wine dynasty dates back to the Crimean War (complete with some questionable marketing tactics), and the surprising story of Iron Maiden's drummer's very expensive taste in Bordeaux. You'll discover: The truth about wine pricing and when you're really just paying for the name Why South Africa and Portugal are the wine regions to watch right now How to actually taste wine in a restaurant without feeling awkward What "corked" wine really means (and why wet cardboard is involved) Tom's comfort food obsession: chicken, ham, and tarragon pie with a buttery Chardonnay Why natural wine divides opinion—and why that's actually fine The rise of English wine that rivals £80 white Burgundy Tom also reveals his biggest barbecue disaster, his sweet tooth weakness that keeps him running marathons, and why fermented grape juice should simply be there to make us laugh. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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