Tannat is a grape that originated in France but has traveled to Uruguay in the 19th century where it became a very popular grape. Tannat is relatively easy to grow and can also be found in the U.S., Australia, Argentina, and Brazil.

Tannat is a thick skinned grape which produces wines that are high in tannins, dark colored, acidic, and with high levels of alcohol. The thickness of the skins makes this grape resistant to disease like rot and fungus.

Tannat also has one of the highest levels of antioxidants out of all red grapes. The only grape with higher levels of antioxidants is Sagrantino. Because of this, it is considered to have some of the best health benefits among red wine. The antioxidants also allow tannat to age well.

Tannat grapes can produce varietal wines but can also be blended with Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvigon and Cabernet Franc. The tannat styles you will find in France are quite different from those in Uruguay. French tannat is fuller in body, higher in tannin and can age well while the styles from Uruguay are lighter in body with less tannins and are friendlier for everyday consumption. In order to manage the harsh tannins, French producers have developed a technique called micro-oxygenation through which very small amounts of oxygen are slowly added to wine during the fermentation process in tanks or barrels in order to soften the tannins.

Tannat is also used for producing full bodied and fruity rosé wines. The maceration period for these rosés is very limited in order to avoid too much tannins.

Tannat Wine Regions

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