You know when you take a sip of wine and feel that dry, puckering sensation? Those are wine tannins. They’re natural and are one of the most important parts of wine, but are often misunderstood. But don’t worry! You don’t need a chemistry degree to understand them.
Throughout this article, I’m going to break down exactly what wine tannins are, why they matter, and which wines you should consider depending on your tannin preferences.
What Are Tannins in Wine?
Tannins are natural chemicals that are found in plants- like grape skins, seeds, and stems (and can also be in tea leaves, oak barrels, and dark chocolate) giving wine their structure and texture. An easy way to think of tannins is as the backbone of red wine– the reason some wines feel silky smooth, and others feel bold and drying.
Here’s the science-y part (don’t worry, it’s simple): tannins are polyphenols, which are compounds that bond to proteins. When you sip wine, tannins interact with the proteins in your saliva, causing that dry feeling in your mouth.
Why Do Wine Tannins Matter?
Wine tannins aren’t just about mouthfeel; they also influence the aging and fermenting process. Tannins act as a natural preservative, which is why some red wine varietals can age for decades. Red wines have more tannins because they’re fermented with the grape skins and seed, while white wines have very little since the skins are usually removed. Over time, tannins soften and mellow out, making older wines smooth and more complex.
Fun Fact: Wine tannins are actually good for you! When consumed in moderation, they contain antioxidants that have proven to be good for your immune system, blood sugar, blood pressure, and can even reduce headaches. Who knew drinking wine could be good for you!
High-Tannin Wines for Bold Flavor Lovers
If you love bold, full-bodied wines, high-tannin options are your go-to. These wines are intense, complex, and often perfect for aging.
- Cabernet Sauvignon – Known for its deep flavors of blackcurrant, cedar, and spice, Cabernet Sauvignon is a tannin powerhouse. Pair it with a juicy steak to balance the astringency.
- Malbec – With rich notes of plum, blackberry, and chocolate, Malbec offers a softer take on tannins without losing its boldness.
- Syrah/Shiraz – These wines are packed with tannins and flavors of dark fruit, pepper, and smoke. Syrah from France tends to be earthier, while Shirax from Australia is fruitier.
Low-Tannin Wines for a Softer Sip
Prefer something gentler? Low-tannin wines offer a smoother, less astringent experience that’s easier on the palate.
- Pinot Noir – Elegant and silky, Pinot Noir is perfect for beginners. It features notes of red berries, earthy undertones, and soft tannins.
- Gamay – Known for Beaujolais wines, Gamay is fruity, light-bodies, and very low in tannins/ It’s a great choice for casual sipping.
- Merlot – While Merlot can have moderate tannins, it’s often softer and rounder than Cabernet Sauvignon, with flavors of plum and chocolate.
Want to Learn More About Wine Tannins?
Wine isn’t just about drinking– it’s about exploring, learning, and connecting. That’s where Winelikes comes in. Winelikes is an app that helps you share your wine journey with friends, learn cool wine facts to become a wine connoisseur, and discover wines you’ll love. Winelikes can be your go-to for everything wine, no matter where you’re at in your journey!
Download the Winelikes app to dive deeper into the world of wine, exploring tannins, flavors, and more than you can imagine. Who knew science could taste so good?
