What is a tannic wine?

"Tannic wine" is a term used to describe a wine that has a high level of tannins. It's not a specific type of wine, but rather a characteristic that can be found in many different wines.

Here's what you need to know about tannic wines:

What are tannins?

Tannins are naturally occurring compounds found in grapes, oak barrels, and other sources. They contribute to the following characteristics in wine:

* Astringency: This is the drying, puckering sensation you feel on your tongue when you drink a tannic wine. It's like the feeling you get when you eat unripe fruit.

* Structure: Tannins provide a backbone to the wine, giving it weight and complexity.

* Aging potential: Tannins can protect wine from oxidation and help it age gracefully.

What wines are tannic?

* Red wines: Red wines, especially those made from thick-skinned grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Zinfandel, tend to be tannic.

* Some white wines: Some white wines, like those made from Sauvignon Blanc, can also be tannic, especially those aged in oak.

What does a tannic wine taste like?

Tannins can have different flavors depending on the grape variety, the winemaking process, and the age of the wine. In young wines, tannins can be perceived as bitter, harsh, and astringent. With time, tannins soften and develop more complex flavors like leather, tobacco, and spice.

How to enjoy tannic wines:

* Pair with food: Tannins can be softened by food. Serve tannic wines with rich, fatty dishes like red meat, lamb, and cheese.

* Decant: Decanting can help to aerate the wine and allow the tannins to soften.

* Don't be afraid to age it: Many tannic wines improve with age.

In summary:

Tannic wines are characterized by a drying, puckering sensation due to the presence of tannins. They are often bold and complex, with flavors that evolve over time. Understanding tannins can help you appreciate the nuances of different wines and make informed choices about what to drink.