Tannin

Spineless

Definition

Lacks backbone — low acid and low tannin together.

Why this matters in wine

Weak structural core.

Typical aromas, flavors & texture

  • Flabby commercial reds

Position inside its category

Tannin
Spineless

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 24 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 spineless mean in wine?
Lacks backbone — low acid and low tannin together.
Why does spineless matter for pairing?
Weak structural core.
What is spineless often confused with?
Tasters often overlap spineless with flabby, soft. Each descriptor has a distinct place in the wine vocabulary.

See also