What Are Tannins and How Do They Affect the Taste?
Wine is one of the most complex beverages in the world, and one of the components that greatly contributes to its structure, mouthfeel, and flavor profile is tannin. You’ve probably heard the term if you’ve ever read a wine description or talked with a sommelier but what exactly are tannins, and how do they affect your wine experience?
In this article, we’ll break down what tannins are, where they come from, how they impact the taste of wine, and how you can better understand your own preferences when it comes to tannic wines.
What Are Tannins?
Tannins are naturally occurring polyphenols found in plants. In the context of wine, they come primarily from:
- Grape skins
- Grape seeds
- Stems
- Oak barrels (used during aging)
Tannins create a dry, astringent sensation in the mouth. Imagine drinking a strong black tea or biting into a raw walnut—that puckering, slightly bitter feeling is caused by tannins.
Why Are Tannins Important in Wine?
Tannins play several crucial roles in wine:
1. Structure and Mouthfeel
Tannins give wine body and texture. In red wines especially, they add grip and a sense of fullness. This is part of what makes some wines feel more “serious” or “complex” on the palate.
2. Aging Potential
Tannins are antioxidants. High-tannin wines tend to age better, developing deeper, more nuanced flavors over time.
3. Balance
Tannins counterbalance sweetness and fruitiness. In dry wines, this balance is essential to avoid the wine tasting flat or overly sugary.
Tannins in Red vs White Wine
Red Wine
Red wines usually contain more tannins because they are fermented with grape skins, seeds, and sometimes stems. The longer the skin contact, the higher the tannin level.
Examples of high-tannin red wines:
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Nebbiolo
- Syrah/Shiraz
Examples of low-tannin red wines:
- Pinot Noir
- Gamay (used in Beaujolais)
- Barbera
White Wine
White wines typically have little to no tannin because they are made without skin contact. However, some tannins can still be introduced through oak aging.
Chardonnay aged in oak may contain subtle tannins, but most white wines are virtually tannin-free.
What Do Tannins Taste Like?
Tannins don’t have a flavor in the traditional sense they are more about sensation.
Signs of high-tannin wine:
- Drying sensation on your tongue and gums
- Puckering or chalky mouthfeel
- Bitterness (in excess)
Well-balanced tannins contribute to a wine’s elegance and complexity. Poorly integrated or overly harsh tannins can make a wine taste bitter or abrasive.
Are Tannins Good or Bad?
That depends entirely on your personal taste.
- You might enjoy tannins if you like strong tea, dark chocolate, and red wine with a bold character.
- You might dislike tannins if you prefer smooth, fruity, or light-bodied wines without bitterness.
It’s important to remember that not all tannins are created equal. Some wines have silky, smooth, or velvety tannins that are enjoyable even to those sensitive to dryness. Others have grippy or coarse tannins that are more aggressive.
How to Soften Tannins
If you find a wine too tannic, try these techniques:
1. Let the Wine Breathe
Decanting or letting a wine sit in your glass allows oxygen to soften the tannins, making the wine taste smoother.
2. Pair with Fatty Foods
Tannins bind to proteins and fats, which reduce the perception of astringency. That’s why red wine pairs beautifully with steak or aged cheese.
3. Serve at the Right Temperature
Serving red wine too warm can exaggerate bitterness. Aim for slightly below room temperature—about 60–65°F (15–18°C).
4. Choose a Different Grape Variety
If you’re sensitive to tannins, try varietals with naturally low tannin levels like Pinot Noir, Grenache, or Zinfandel.
Tannin Levels by Wine Type
| Wine Type | Tannin Level |
|---|---|
| Cabernet Sauvignon | High |
| Syrah/Shiraz | Medium-High |
| Merlot | Medium |
| Pinot Noir | Low |
| Gamay (Beaujolais) | Low |
| Nebbiolo | Very High |
| Sangiovese | Medium-High |
| Malbec | Medium |
Tannins and Health
Tannins are rich in antioxidants, which have been studied for their potential health benefits. However, excessive tannins may also contribute to wine headaches or digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
There’s no clear scientific consensus on whether tannins are the cause of wine headaches histamines and sulfites are other likely culprits but those who experience issues may want to experiment with lower-tannin wines to see if symptoms improve.
Tannins Are an Acquired Taste
Tannins are one of the most defining and fascinating aspects of red wine. Whether you’re a fan of bold Cabernets or prefer the smooth elegance of Pinot Noir, understanding how tannins affect your wine helps you make more informed and enjoyable choices.
Take the time to experiment with different styles, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations at your local wine shop or tasting room. The more you taste, the more you’ll understand your palate.
