21/08/2026
RED WINE TANNINS — FROM SILKY TO SERIOUSLY GRIPPY
Ever wondered why some red wines feel soft and silky, while others leave your mouth completely dry?
Meet tannins.
Tannins are natural compounds found mainly in grape skins, seeds and stems. They interact with the proteins in your saliva, creating that unmistakable drying, gripping sensation on your gums and palate. (WSET Global)
And different grapes can produce dramatically different tannin levels.
🟢 LOW TANNIN
Pinot Noir, Gamay, Frappato, Schiava and lighter Grenache styles tend to sit on the softer side of the spectrum. Pinot Noir and Gamay, in particular, are naturally low in tannin. (WSET Global)
🟠 MEDIUM TANNIN
Move toward Merlot, Sangiovese, Barbera, Tempranillo and Malbec and you’ll generally find more grip, structure and presence.
🔴 HIGH TANNIN
Then come the heavy hitters: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah/Shiraz, Aglianico, Nebbiolo and Tannat — wines where tannin can become a defining part of the experience. Cabernet and Nebbiolo are classic examples of naturally high-tannin varieties. (Wine Folly)
And at the extreme end?
Barolo. Nebbiolo. Tannat. Baga. Xinomavro.
The “NO GUMS LEFT” club. 😅🍷
But remember: this chart is a general guide, not an absolute ranking. Grape variety matters, but ripeness, maceration, fermentation, extraction and maturation can significantly change the amount and texture of tannin you experience in the glass. (WSET Global)
Next time you drink red wine, pay attention not only to what you taste — but how the wine feels.
Silky? Velvety? Chalky? Grippy? Powerful?
That texture tells part of the wine’s story.
💬 Which red wine gives you the perfect level of tannin?
Save this chart for your next wine tasting. 🍷
Next wine essentials course kicks off …by Old Bridge on Tuesday September 1 at 6.30pm. See bio for more deets
