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Wine Styles & Varietals

Tannat

Wine style and varietal guide

Reviewed by , Drinks Editor
RedRed • Dry13–15% ABVFull bodyDry sweetnessmedium acidityVery High tannins

Is this for me?

Choose this if…

  • ✓You prefer dry, crisp wines without residual sweetness.
  • ✓You enjoy firm tannins and structured red wines.
  • ✓You want a full-bodied, rich wine to pair with hearty food.

Skip if…

  • ✗You prefer sweeter or off-dry wines.
  • ✗You prefer smooth, low-tannin or white wines.
  • ✗You prefer lighter, more delicate wine styles.

What is Tannat?

Tannat is a classic red wine with balanced fruit, acidity, and tannins, suitable for a wide range of meals.

Best For

DinnerSavoury foodRed meatAged cheeseRed

Food Pairings

CharcuterieCheese BoardRoast MeatSteak

Taste & Style

Dry sweetnessmedium acidityVery High tanninsFull bodyBlack FruitSpicyFull BodiedTannic

Flavour profile

Black Fruit(high)Spicy(low)Full Bodied(medium)Tannic(high)

Food pairings

Best for

Frequently asked questions

What is Tannat?
Tannat is a classic red wine with balanced fruit, acidity, and tannins, suitable for a wide range of meals.
What does Tannat taste like?
Tannat is often described as Black Fruit, Spicy, Full Bodied, Tannic. Flavour intensity varies by region, producer and vintage.
What foods pair with Tannat?
Tannat pairs well with Charcuterie, Cheese Board, Roast Meat, Steak. Food pairing suggestions are based on complementary flavour profiles.
How strong is Tannat?
Tannat typically has an ABV of 13–15%. Strength varies by producer and vintage.
When should I drink Tannat?
Tannat works well as an aperitif, with a meal, or as a standalone sipping wine. The ideal occasion depends on the body and sweetness level — lighter styles suit casual dining while fuller-bodied wines complement heartier dishes.
What wines are similar to Tannat?
If you enjoy Tannat, explore other wine styles with a similar body and flavour profile using the sensory bars as a guide. Wines with matching acidity and tannin scores will feel closest in character.
Does Tannat improve with age?
Cellaring potential for Tannat depends on the producer, vintage and storage conditions. Most everyday expressions are best enjoyed within 3–5 years of release. Premium examples may benefit from longer ageing — check producer notes for guidance.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Tannin/Bitterness (soft to grippy), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent), Boldness (delicate to bold) and Beginner-Friendly (acquired taste to easy intro). Each scale helps you compare wine styles at a glance.
How do I use the sensory profile to find wines I like?
If you enjoy light, crisp wines look for Light Body with Crisp Acidity. For bold, rich wines choose Full Body with Grippy Tannin. Compare Tannat with similar wine styles to find your next favourite.

Wine style information is approximate and varies by producer, region, vintage and serving size.