If you’ve ever sipped a glass of red wine and felt a dry, puckering sensation in your mouth, you’ve experienced tannins.
For many beginners, tannins can be a confounding aspect of wine, but don’t worry! In this guide, we'll talk through the notion of tannins, explore their role in a wines flavour and texture.
What Are Tannins?
Tannins are naturally occurring compounds found in various plants, most notably in the skins, seeds, and stems of grapes. They belong to a group of polyphenols that are primarily responsible for the astringent taste and texture you often experience in red wines. In some cases, tannins can also be found in other beverages — like tea and certain types of beer.
Tannins serve an essential function in grapevines, acting as a defense mechanism against pests and diseases. But when it comes to wine, they contribute significantly to the flavour profile and overall structure of the final product.
Where Do Tannins Come From?
When winemakers crush grapes to create wine, they extract juice from the fruit, but that’s just part of the story. During the fermentation process, especially with red wines, the skins, seeds, and stems are involved, allowing tannins to bleed into the wine. The level of tannin in a wine varies based on several factors:
Grape Variety
Some grapes, like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, naturally have higher tannin levels compared to others like Pinot Noir. Reason being that Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, for example, have thicker skins compared to Pinot Noir and thicker skins contain more tannins.
Winemaking Techniques
The methods used, such as fermentation time with the skins or aging in oak barrels, can influence tannin extraction.
Wine Age
As wines age, tannins tend to soften, leading to a milder mouthfeel.
Tasting and Appreciating Tannic Wines
So, how do you enjoy tannic wines without feeling overwhelmed? Here are some tips to enhance your tasting experience:
1. Choose the Right Food Pairings
One of the best ways to appreciate the astringency of tannic wines is through food pairings. Foods high in fat, such as steak, and, my go to, cheese, can soften the perception of tannins and create a harmonious balance on your palate.
2. Let It Breathe
Just like people need fresh air, tannic wines benefit from a little oxygen too. Decanting the wine or letting it sit in your glass for a while can help the tannins soften, allowing for a smoother tasting experience.
3. Pay Attention to the Temperature
Serving temperature can dramatically impact how we perceive tannins. Red wines are usually best enjoyed at slightly cooler temperatures (around 15 -18°C). If a tannic wine is served too warm, the alcohol can become more pronounced, overpowering those intricate tannic nuances.
4. Experiment with Varieties
Don’t be afraid to try different grape varieties and styles. Some people might find that they prefer lower-tannin wines, while others may appreciate the boldness of a high-tannin wine. Keep an open mind!
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