Tannin: why wine grips your mouth

4 min 20 secC04After Lessons 1–3

Knowledge check

Can the claim survive the glass?

Each attempt draws a fresh mix from this lesson’s question bank. Choose the best answer for each question. You need 4 of 5 to complete this lesson.

01What does astringency describe?

A drying or grippy physical sensation. Any absence of sugar. A fruit aroma.

02What is wrong with the tannin sponge picture?

It uses a simplified illustration. It implies tannin simply removes water from the mouth. It shows saliva at all.

03Can tea be both bitter and astringent?

No; they are the same sensation. No; only wine is astringent. Yes; taste and physical grip can coexist.

04You want low sweetness but less grip. What should you ask for?

A dry wine with gentler drying tannin. A sweeter wine, regardless of texture. The most expensive red.

05Does strong drying prove a wine will age well?

Yes, if it is dark red. No; the sensation alone is insufficient. Yes, always.

Serious wine knowledge.
Questionable levels of seriousness.

Taste responsibly. Spitting is encouraged. Transport plans beat tasting notes.

Tannin: why wine grips your mouth: Quiz | Willie’s Wine Lessons