April 19, 2024
Tannins play an essential role in the complexity and structure of wine, but what exactly are they? Derived from the skins, seeds, and stems of grapes, tannins are natural compounds that contribute to the texture and solidity of wine during the winemaking process. While red wines typically undergo maceration with these solid grape parts, allowing for the extraction of tannins, white wines are often made solely from grape juice, resulting in low or no tannin presence.
Vignerons carefully consider the type and quality of tannins present in their grapes, as they can vary depending on the grape variety and its degree of ripeness. Grape skin tannins are usually softer and more refined than those from seeds or stems, which can impart bitterness and harshness, especially in underripe grapes.
Not all grape varieties contain the same amount of tannins, with some producing highly tannic wines that require aging to soften and develop. Ultimately, whether the wine is smooth, robust, velvety, or astringent, its character is significantly influenced by the presence and quality of tannins.