Tannat

Tannat is a dark-skinned red grape best known for deeply colored, structured wines with notable tannin and a savory edge. It has an important historic home in Madiran in southwest France and has become one of Uruguay's signature red varieties.

Expect black plum, blackberry, licorice, cocoa, spice and sometimes a rustic herbal note. Depending on origin and winemaking, Tannat can range from firm and traditional to polished, fruit-driven and oak-aged.

What does Tannat taste like?

Tannat typically tastes dark, dense and firmly built. Blackberry, black cherry, plum skin, licorice and dried herbs are common, often supported by earthy or smoky nuances.

The grape is known for high tannin, refreshing acidity and a full body. Oak ageing can add vanilla, cedar, coffee or chocolate, while careful modern winemaking can make the texture smoother without losing its powerful character.

Where does Tannat come from?

Tannat is historically associated with southwest France, especially Madiran, where it forms robust, ageworthy reds. It is also found in neighboring appellations and can appear in blends as well as varietal wines.

Internationally, Uruguay is the most important modern reference point for Tannat. There it often shows riper fruit and a more approachable structure, while smaller plantings exist in Argentina, the United States and other warm wine regions.

Which Tannat styles are there?

Classic Tannat can be powerful, dark and cellar-worthy, with firm tannins and a savory profile. These wines often benefit from grilled food, decanting or bottle age.

Modern styles may be softer and more fruit-forward, sometimes supported by French or American oak. Rosé is less common but possible; the main identity of Tannat remains dry, structured red wine.


What food pairs with Tannat?

Tannat is excellent with grilled steak, lamb chops, beef short ribs, venison, duck confit and slow-cooked stews. Its tannins work especially well with protein and dishes with roasted or smoky flavors.

It also suits hard cheeses, mushroom ragout, bean casseroles and barbecue. For very powerful bottles, choose equally intense food rather than delicate fish or lightly seasoned vegetables.

Buy Tannat wine online

Tannat is ideal for wine lovers who enjoy bold reds with grip, depth and dark fruit. It brings a distinctive alternative to more familiar full-bodied varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec.

Browse our selection to discover Tannat from classic and modern regions, from structured cellar wines to smoother, generous reds for hearty food.




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