Tannin

Bitter

Definition

Phenolic bitterness — green tannin or extraction fault when harsh.

Why this matters in wine

Negative tannin edge.

Typical aromas, flavors & texture

  • Underripe extraction
  • Some Italian reds

Position inside its category

Tannin
Bitter

Tannin

  1. ●Bitter
  2. ○Harsh
  3. ○Aggressive
  4. ○Grippy
  5. ○Angular
  6. ○Powerful
  7. ○Coarse
  8. ○Leathery
  9. ○Rigid
  10. ○Muscular
  11. ○Firm
  12. ○Structured
  13. ○Chewy
  14. ○Chocolate
  15. ○Silky
  16. ○Smooth
  17. ○Round
  18. ○Opulent
  19. ○Velvety
  20. ○Voluptuous
  21. ○Supple
  22. ○Soft
  23. ○Mellow
  24. ○Spineless
  25. ○Flabby

Position 1 of 25 on the Tannin scale.

Parent category

Tannin — Phenolic grip and texture — from silky Pinot to aggressive young Nebbiolo; tannin is the main red-wine pairing lever.

Sibling descriptors

Opposite descriptors

Nearby on the scale

More in Tannin

Frequently confused with

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FAQ

What does bitter mean in wine?
Phenolic bitterness — green tannin or extraction fault when harsh.
Why does bitter matter for pairing?
Negative tannin edge.
What is bitter often confused with?
Tasters often overlap bitter with harsh, green. Each descriptor has a distinct place in the wine vocabulary.

See also