Why Your Wine Feels Dry: A Simple Guide to Tannins

If you’ve ever sipped a glass of red wine and felt your mouth go dry or slightly puckered, you’ve experienced tannins at work. Tannins are naturally occurring compounds found in plants, and they play a major role in shaping the taste, structure, and aging potential of wine. For wine lovers, understanding tannins can help you better appreciate what’s in your glass—and even choose wines you’ll enjoy more.

Tannins in wine come mainly from the skins, seeds, and stems of grapes. Because red wines are fermented with their skins, they typically have higher tannin levels than white wines, which are usually fermented without skins. Tannins can also come from oak barrels used during the aging process, which can contribute additional structure and subtle flavors to the wine.

So, what do tannins actually do? In terms of taste, tannins are responsible for the dry, sometimes slightly bitter sensation you get on your gums and tongue. It’s not a sourness (like acidity), but more of a drying or astringent effect. This is similar to the feeling you get when drinking strong black tea, which is also high in tannins. Some people love the bold structure tannins bring to wine, while others may find them overpowering, especially in young reds.

Beyond taste, tannins add depth and complexity to wine. They help provide balance to the fruitiness and sweetness, making the wine feel more complete. Importantly, tannins also act as natural preservatives. Wines with high tannin content, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Nebbiolo, tend to age well over time. As these wines mature, tannins soften and integrate, often resulting in a smoother, more nuanced drinking experience.

If you’re not a fan of strong tannins, there are ways to work around them. Opt for wines with lower tannin levels like Pinot Noir, Gamay, or Merlot. You can also try pairing tannic wines with rich, fatty foods like steak or cheese—this helps soften the tannins and makes the wine feel more balanced on the palate. Another tip is to let the wine breathe; decanting a wine before serving can help mellow its tannins.

Ultimately, tannins are an essential part of the wine experience. Whether you love bold reds or prefer softer styles, knowing what tannins are—and how they influence flavor and texture—will deepen your wine appreciation. Next time you raise a glass, take a moment to notice that drying sensation. That’s tannins in action, adding character to every sip.