The Backbone of wines

Tannins also be found in white Grape like Assyrtiko

Many less experienced wine drinkers are intimidated by the perceived dryness of a wine. They don’t like that astringent texture, preferring a wine that is smooth to the taste. Unfortunately, the wine industry doesn’t provide much guidance on how to define a good wine.

The first thing to examine is Texture. Most of the time, wine periodicals focus on the flavors and aromas but neglect texture, which is crucial in evaluating wine. That astringent texture comes from the Tannins. This substance is found in the stems, bloom of the skin, and pips of the grapes. A wine cannot age well without the presence of Tannins, though they can also impart a somewhat rough and dry taste when the wine is young.

However not all red wine contains perceptible tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon generally has very high levels of tannins, in contrast to Merlot, Carignan & Pinot Noir for example. The wine production process also plays a very important part in determining the level of tannins in the wine. Depending on what the winemaker thinks people will buy, he can alter or manipulate the end product so that it can be drunk immediately when it hits the shelves, fulfilling our need for instant gratification. Unfortunately, in the process, taking away many of the true flavors, vibrancy and uniqueness of his wine. Statistics indicate that more than 90% of wine is consumed within 2 days of purchase.

There is nothing comparable to a wine drunk during its optimum period. Try to gain the ability of being able to judge whether a wine will age well. The astringency of the tannins is a good way to start. A good core of ripe fruits will able to balance the dryness of tannins, otherwise, the fruits will fade away before the tannins evolve and transform. Not to forget another important element, Acidity. Without that the wine will taste flabby, and not age well.
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With all these elements present, a wine has a solid foundation and a bright future!
So next time, try to find a wine with some tannins in it and let it age for couple of years. Or simply buy an aged bottle.

In the next article we will discuss further the characteristics of the French regions….