After Ryan ten Doeschate smashed 82 off 44 balls to give Essex an intimidating total of 187-6 from their 20 overs, it was Tait's turn to take over at Trent Bridge yesterday.
Under the lights, Tait ended Nottinghamshire's hopes of making a strong challenge for the target.
Alex Hales blasted 31 off 12 balls, but David Masters then took three quick wickets as the hosts slumped to 64-4.
Despite 61 from David Hussey, Nottinghamshire never seriously threatened to make the total once Tait got going.