Tannin

/TAN-in/
👃Tasting🍷Winemaking

Polyphenols creating dry, astringent mouthfeel.

Full Definition

Tannins are polyphenolic compounds from grape skins, seeds, stems, and oak barrels. They create astringency - the drying, gripping sensation in your mouth - and contribute to structure, aging potential, and color stability. Tannins polymerize and soften with age. Ripe tannins are velvety; unripe tannins are green and bitter.

Related Terms

astringencyphenolicsgrip

See Also

structureaging
SyrahBack to GlossaryTartaric Acid

More terms starting with T

Tartaric Acid

The primary acid in wine grapes.

Tartrates

Harmless crystals that precipitate from wine.

TCA

Chemical compound causing cork taint.

Terroir

The complete natural environment affecting wine character.

Tertiary Aromas

Complex aromas developed through aging.

Texture

The tactile sensation of wine in the mouth.