Which red wines are low in tannins?

You probably know when a glass of red wine is too bitter. This is due to tannins (also known as tannins). They play a crucial role in the flavor and structure of the wine. Some people prefer wines with lower tannin content because it creates a gentler and more approachable wine experience. Some are forced to drink red wines that are lower in tannins to avoid feeling flu-like symptoms.

If you’re a fan of red wines with less tannin, then look forward to DanishWine.com’s guide. Among other things, we recommend Danish red wines as an exciting alternative to the stronger southern European red wines.

What is tannin and how does it affect the taste of wine?

Tannins come from grape skins, seeds and stems and oak barrels. Tannins contribute texture and structure to the flavor of the wine.

Taste and feel: Tannins create a dry, slightly astringent mouthfeel reminiscent of strongly brewed tea. They add depth and complexity to the wine’s flavor profile.
Shelf life: As natural antioxidants, tannins help extend the life of wine. They are an important factor in wines that mature well over time.

Which red wine grape varieties are low in tannins?

Some grape varieties contain fewer tannins than others. Here’s a handy overview:

Tannin content	Grape varieties
Lichen	Pinot Noir, Grenache, Merlot, Rondo, Barbera
Medium	Tempranillo, Zinfandel, Sangiovese
High	Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo, Syrah

Danish wineries such as Vesterhave Vingård and Skræsøgaard Vin create wines with Rondo, which have a softer and fruitier character. The Danish climate with cooler temperatures generally produces grapes with lower tannin content, and Rondo is clearly a good way to go for red wines with less tannin.

How to choose red wines without too much tannin?

You should prioritize the following when choosing wines with low tannins:

Grape variety: Choose varieties known for low tannin content, such as Pinot Noir, Rondo or Grenache.
Climate: Wines from cooler climates, like Denmark, have gentler flavor profiles.
Aging: Avoid wines with long barrel aging as this can increase tannin content.
Age: Older wines often have softer tannins as they bind and develop a smoother texture.

Which foods go well with low tannic red wines?

Low-tannin red wines are versatile and can accompany many dishes:

Light dishes: Grilled chicken and salmon are obvious choices.
Danish food: Pair Rondo wines with meatballs or smoked meat.
Asian cuisine: Mildly spicy dishes harmonize with the wine’s smooth flavor profile.

Tannins bind to fats and proteins in food, balancing and enhancing flavor.

We have collected some of the best light Danish red wines with low tannins in our webshop.

Is there a link between tannic acid and headaches?

Some suspect tannins of causing headaches, but there is a lack of clear scientific evidence.

Red wine headaches can be caused by tannins, histamines or sulfites, but low tannin wines like Pinot Noir and Grenache can reduce the risk.

Symptoms of wine intolerance include headaches, nausea and flushing, but avoiding strong tannins and wines from cooler climates can create a milder wine experience for sensitive individuals.

Summing up

Tannic acid, also known as tannins, is found in grape skins, seeds, stems and oak barrels. Tannins contribute to the structure, longevity and flavor of wine, but can be drying. Low tannin wines, such as Pinot Noir and Rondo, offer a gentler profile. Low tannin content reduces the risk of red wine headaches and goes well with many dishes. Danish wine is known for having less tannin than the classic wine countries in the south.

FAQ

Which red wines have low tannins?

Red wines made from grapes like Pinot Noir, Grenache, Merlot, Rondo and Barbera have a lower tannin content than other red wines.

Can red wine with lower tannin content reduce the risk of headaches?

Yes, lower tannin wines such as Pinot Noir, Grenache or Rondo can reduce the risk of headaches in people who are sensitive to tannins. Low tannin content combined with lower levels of histamines and sulfites can provide a milder wine experience and reduce the likelihood of wine intolerance-related symptoms.

What are tannins in red wine?

Tannins are natural polyphenols found in grape skins, seeds and stems, as well as in oak barrels used for wine aging. They give red wine structure, bitterness and a dry mouthfeel. Tannins also act as antioxidants that extend the shelf life of the wine and contribute to its complexity during aging.

What is tannic acid in red wine?

Tannins are natural compounds in wine that originate from grape skins, seeds, stems and oak barrels. They create structure and texture in wine, give a dry mouthfeel and contribute to the wine’s longevity. Tannins are primarily found in red wines and are important for flavor and aging.

Can you get red wine without tannins?

It’s not possible to get red wine completely free of tannins, as tannins naturally occur in the grape skins, seeds and stems used in the production of red wine. But you can find red wines with very low tannin content, such as Pinot Noir, Grenache or Danish wines made from Rondo. These wines have a gentler and less drying profile.

Are there tannins in white wine?

Yes, there are tannins in white wine, but in much smaller quantities than in red wine. This is because white wine is typically made without long contact with the grape skins, seeds and stems, where tannins are primarily found. However, if white wine is fermented or aged in oak barrels, it can have a slightly higher tannin content.