What Actually Gives You A Hangover.
- Wine Hobbyist
- 12 hours ago
- 2 min read
Wine hangovers are the ultimate buzzkill, especially when you're just trying to enjoy a holiday glass or two without the next-day regret. As a certified sommelier who's seen (and felt) it all, I'm here to debunk the myths and give you the real science in plain English, so you can sip smarter and wake up ready for round two.
The Sulphite Scapegoat
Sulphites are everywhere in wine, but they're not the headache monster people make them out to be. Naturally occurring in fermentation (making up about 90% of what's in your bottle), they're added in tiny amounts to keep wine fresh, just like in dried fruits, beer, or even french fries. True sulphite sensitivity is rare, mostly affecting folks with asthma, and even then, it's more congestion than pounding temples. We go deep on sulphites in this blog post. Check that out if you need more fun facts about the uses of sulphur.
Real Hangover Triggers
Alcohol itself is the main culprit, but here's what amps it up:
Dehydration: Wine is a diuretic, flushing water (and electrolytes) out faster than you sip. Darker, bolder reds pack more "congeners", fermentation byproducts like methanol that intensify symptoms.
ABV Sneak Attacks: A 15% Zinfandel hits different from an 11% Sauvignon Blanc; higher alcohol means more dehydration and congener overload.
Sugar & Histamines: Off-dry or late-harvest wines cause blood sugar crashes, while histamines (higher in reds) can dilate blood vessels for that signature throb, especially if you're sensitive, but that's just 7% of the population.
Hangover-Proof Hacks
No need for fancy gadgets. These simple swaps keep the fun going:
Alternate every wine glass with water or low/no-alc bubbly to stay hydrated ahead of the curve.
Front-load fatty/protein snacks like cheese, nuts, or charcuterie as they slow alcohol absorption way better than carb bombs.
Stick to lighter wines under 13% ABV, chill reds slightly to tame the heat (alcohol), and consume what makes sense for you - the today you, and the tomorrow morning you!
If you feel it in the morning, turn to coconut water + electrolytes over coffee; B-vitamins from eggs or a smoothie also help to speed recovery.
Your Holiday "No-Regrets" Flight
Now that we've got the science straight, let's turn it into action with a holiday "No-Regrets" flight; three low-risk, high-fun wines that'll keep your party popping without the plot twist of a pounding head.
Tailored for wine-curious hosts like you, this trio of wines leans on low congeners, gentler ABVs, and killer pairings that anyone can grab off the shelf and wow with.
Crisp White (Albarino, ~12% ABV): Low congeners, super hydrating
Chillable Red (Gamay/Beaujolais, ~12.5% ABV): Juicy, low-tannin, congener-light.
... and one of my favourites
Zero-Dosage Sparkling (Brut Nature ~12% ABV): Ultra-dry with piercing acidity that cuts through richness, and no dosage means no hidden sweetness to crash your vibe.
There you have it. No more blaming the bottle. Try this lineup at your next gathering and cheers to hangovers in the rearview!