tannin
TAN-in
/ˈtæn.ɪn/
A naturally occurring astringent polyphenol found in grape skins, seeds, and oak barrels that creates a dry, drying texture in the mouth.
Describes texture and structure rather than a flavor like sweet or sour.
The story behind the word. Derived from Celtic and Germanic roots for oak tree bark. Oak bark was historically rich in astringent chemicals used to preserve animal hides into leather. Scientists adopted 'tannin' to name those identical astringent compounds found in tea, wine, and wood.
Word relationships
- astringent compound: 'Astringent compound' is technical; 'tannin' is the exact name of the organic chemical.
Commonly confused with
- tannery: A tannery is a place where animal hides are tanned; tannins are chemical compounds used in tanning and found in plants.
Word family
- tannic (adjective): Containing or resembling tannin; astringent.
Collocations
- firm tannins
- silky tannins
- tannin structure
- high tannin
Example sentences
- "High levels of tannin give young Cabernet Sauvignon the structure required to age gracefully for decades." Wine Structure
Memory hook
Tannins cause your mouth to 'tan' or dry up like leather. The dry grip on your tongue.
When not to use
Do not confuse tannin with acidity; acidity causes salivation, whereas tannin dries the mouth.
Fun facts
- Tannins act as a natural plant defense mechanism, deterring animals from eating unripe fruit before seeds mature.
Related words
Explore more words
astringency, astringent, mouthfeel, aftertaste, crispness, wither
Also appears in
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