WYNCH · Reference library

Tannins

Compounds that can create a gripping or drying feeling in the mouth. Contact with grape skins can extract them into wine.

Explained simply

Tannins are the feeling that can make your mouth seem dry or grippy—like very strong black tea. They mainly come from skins, seeds, stems and wood.

Sources: Natural wine without myths

In more detail

Tannins are phenolic compounds that can react with proteins in saliva and create astringency. Grape variety, ripeness, skin contact and ageing shape their amount and feel. Over time, tannins may seem less angular.

Sources: Natural wine without myths

What to look for

Tannin is a mouthfeel, not one aroma. Words such as fine, sandy, silky or firm are more useful than simply saying “high tannin”.

Sources: Natural wine without myths

Read in the journal A barnyard or medicinal smell in natural wine can hide the fruit — guests do not have to drink it bravely. Explained in context in our article about natural wine.

Sources

  1. Natural wine without myths ·

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