Do you love red wine but can’t stand the bitter taste that tannins leave in your mouth? Are you looking for a smooth, easy-drinking red wine that doesn’t have a lot of tannins? If so, then you’ll want to check out our list of low tannin red wine varieties! This blog post will discuss some of the best low tannin red wines on the market. We’ll also give you a few tips on finding these wines and how to enjoy them. So if you’re ready to explore the world of low tannin red wines, keep reading!
What Are Tannins, And Why Do They Matter In Wine?
Tannins are a type of molecule found in wine, and they are responsible for the astringent taste that some wines have. At high levels, tannins can make a wine taste bitter and unpleasant. However, at low levels, tannins can enhance the flavor of wine and make it more complex.
There are many different types of tannins, and they come from various sources. The tannins in red wine come from the grapes’ skin, seeds, and stems. In white wine, the tannins come from grape skins. This is why red wines typically have more tannin than white wines.
Tannins also play an essential role in the aging of wine. They are responsible for developing “tannin mouthfeel” and “tannin astringency.” Tannin mouthfeel is the sensation you get when you drink wine with high tannins levels. It feels like something is coating your mouth and throat. Tannin astringency is the sensation you get when you drink wine with high tannins levels. It feels like your mouth is drying out.
How Can You Tell A Wine’s Tannin Level?
There is no foolproof way to tell if a wine has high or low tannins levels. However, there are a few things that you can look for.
One thing to look for is the grape variety that the wine is made from. Some grape varieties have higher levels of tannins than others. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Petite Sirah are all grapes with high levels of tannins. Pinot Noir and Beaujolais are two grape varieties with low tannins levels.
Another thing to look for is in the region where the wine was made. Some regions have higher levels of tannins than others. For example, wines from Bordeaux and Tuscany tend to have high levels of tannins, while wines from Rioja and Piedmont tend to have low levels of tannins.
Finally, you can also look for the wine’s vintage. Some vintages have higher levels of tannins than others. For example, wines from the 1970s tend to have high levels of tannins, while wines from the 2000s tend to have low levels of tannins.
Is There Anything Else You Need To Know About Tannins Before Trying Them Out Yourself?
You need to know a few other things about tannins before trying them out yourself.
First of all, not all wines with high tannins are bad. Some wines with high levels of tannins can be quite delicious. It all depends on your taste preferences.
Second of all, tannins can vary from wine to wine. This means that even if you’ve tried a glass of wine before that had high levels of tannins, the next bottle of wine you try may have low tannins.
Finally, not all wines with low levels of tannins are good. Some wines with low levels of tannins are bland and uninteresting. It all depends on your taste preferences.
Why Do Some People Like Tannin-Heavy Wines?
So now that you know a bit about tannins, you might be wondering why some people like wines that have high levels of tannins.
There are a few reasons why people might like tannin-heavy wines. For one thing, tannins can add complexity and depth to a wine’s flavor. They can also make a wine taste more earthy or mineral-like.
Additionally, tannins can add a sense of richness and fullness to a wine’s flavor. They can also make a glass of wine feel more viscous and mouth-coating. Lastly, tannins can help balance out sweetness and acidity in a wine, making it taste more complex.
How To Enjoy Low Tannin Red Wines
If you’re looking to explore low tannin red wines, there are a few things you need to know to enjoy them properly. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure you drink them young. Low tannin wines don’t age well, so drink them within a year of purchase.
- Try light foods. Avoid heavy, fatty foods when pairing low tannin wines; instead, go for light and delicate dishes.
- Don’t overdo it. Like any other type of wine, low tannin red wines should be enjoyed in moderation. Too much of a good thing can quickly turn into a bad thing!
- Serve them at a cool temperature. Low tannin wines should be served at around 55 degrees Fahrenheit to get the most out of their flavor.
- Pair them with food. Low tannin wines are perfect for pairing with food, as their flavors won’t overpower your palate.
What Are Some Low Tannin Red Wine Varieties To Try Out?
If you’re looking to explore low tannin red wines, here are a few varieties to get started with:
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a red wine made from the Pinot Noir grape. Pinot Noir wines are typically lighter in body and color than other red wines, and they often have a higher acidity. The flavors of Pinot Noir wines can range from earthy and mushroomy to fruity and floral, and the best examples are typically complex and well-balanced.
Pinot Noir wines are often made in style meant to be enjoyed young, but the best examples can age gracefully for many years. When pairing Pinot Noir with food, it is important to consider the wine’s weight, acidity, and flavor profile. Light Pinot Noirs pair well with lighter dishes like salads and fish, while more full-bodied examples can be paired with heartier fare like pork or beef.
Merlot
Merlot is a type of red wine that originates from the Bordeaux region of France. It is made from a dark-skinned grape variety called Merlot Noir. The grape is thought to have derived its name from the French word for young blackbird, which is “merle.” The wine gained popularity in the 18th century, and today it is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the world.
Merlot wines are typically medium-bodied with soft tannins and hints of fruit, chocolate, and spice. They are often described as being “velvety” or “smooth,” and they pair well with various food items. Merlot is a popular choice for many wine drinkers, and it continues to grow in popularity.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a red wine grape grown in many different regions around the world. The wines made from this grape are typically full-bodied and have high tannin levels. Cabernet Sauvignon wines are often blended with other grapes, such as Merlot or Cabernet Franc.
These blends can add complexity and depth of flavor to the wine. Cabernet Sauvignon is a popular choice for pairing with food, as its bold flavors can stand up to hearty meats and rich sauces. When shopping for a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon, look for one aged for at least two years. This will help to soften the tannins and allow the flavors to mellow.
Zinfandel
Zinfandel is a type of red wine made from the Zinfandel grape. This grape is thought to have originated in Croatia, and it is believed to be a cross between two other grape varieties, Primitivo and Dobriščina. Zinfandel wines are typically full-bodied with high alcohol levels and strong flavors.
They are often described as being spicy, fruity, and jammy. Zinfandel wines can be paired with various food items, but they are especially good with BBQ dishes and spicy foods. Look for Zinfandel wines that have been aged for at least six months to allow the flavors to mellow.
Valpolicella
Valpolicella is a red wine grape growing region located in the hills northwest of Verona, in the Veneto region of Italy. The name “Valpolicella” means “valley of many cellars,” It is indeed home to countless wineries producing some of Italy’s most beloved wines. The region’s most famous wine is Amarone, a rich and full-bodied red wine made from partially dried grapes.
Other well-known wines from Valpolicella include Ripasso, a red wine made by blending young wine with the leftover Amarone skins, and Recioto, a dessert wine made from fully-dried grapes. Thanks to the unique terroir of the region – a perfect combination of sun, soil, and wind – the wines of Valpolicella are known for their intense fruit flavors and lush aromas.
Carmenere
Carmenere is a red wine grape native to the Bordeaux region of France. It is a member of the Cabernet family of grapes and is typically used in blends with other varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. However, it can also be made into a delicious single varietal wine. Carmenere wines are typically deep ruby, with blackberry, plum, and pepper flavors.
They tend to be medium-bodied with moderate tannins and can be enjoyed young or cellared for a few years. If you’re looking for something new to try, give Carmenere a glass! You might find your new favorite wine.
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is a red wine grape used as both a standalone varietal and as a blending grape. It is native to the western regions of France, although it is now grown all over the world. Cabernet Franc wines are typically lighter-bodied than other red wines, with moderate tannins and acidity. They often have a blackberry, cherry, and cedar aroma and sometimes exhibit a green bell pepper flavor. Cabernet Franc adds structure and backbone to the blend when blended with other grapes.
It is often used in Bordeaux-style blends, as well as in many New World wines. Whether enjoyed on its own or in a blend, Cabernet Franc is one of the most versatile red wine grapes. Give it a try today!
There’s no excuse not to give low-tannin wines a try with so many delicious options! Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just starting, these wines will please. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!
