CARPE TRAVEL WINE 101:
GET TO KNOW THE GRAPES
Tannat (tahn-naht) is a full-bodied red wine grape, historically grown in South West France of the Madiran AOC and is now the national grape of Uruguay. Tannat means “tanned” referencing the dark coloring of the grape and the wine.
Dominant flavors include Black Plum, Blackberry, Black Cherry, Licorice, Anise, Mocha, Dark Chocolate, Cardamon, Star Anise, Smoke and Espresso.
Tannat wine is powerfully rustic with red bramble fruits. The grape has the claim of being the healthiest red wine grape thanks to its high antioxidants levels; (Resveratrol) found in ANY red grape.
FUN FACT
Winemakers consider the Tannat grape a bit of a chameleon because it shines differently depending on where it is grown. It’s one they love to experiment with!
WHERE TO FIND THE Tannant Grape
Other names to look for when exploring Tannant wine
When is the Right Mood for Tannant?
HOW TO ENJOY TanNANT
TANNANT FOOD PAIRING
Tannat wine pairs best with dishes like Cassuloet, Tuscana Soup, Peking Duck, Pho, Bu Bun Hue, Beef Sausage, Steak, Duck Confit, Roquefort Cheese, Con Au Vin.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR TANNANT WINE
Glassware: Tannant wine should be consumed in a large red wine glass.
Shelf life: Tannant has a long shelf life of up to 10 years.
Bottle prices: Average bottle costs is about $20.
Serving Tip: Tannant wine needs a lot of decanting to soften its intense tannins.
Tannant WINE RECOMMENDATIONS
Looking for Tannant wine recommendations? Here are a few suggested sips.
Valerie Quintanilla is an American expat in Alba, Italy. Val was an original Carpe Travel contributor before packing up her American life to chase her Italian dreams.
Today she runs a custom travel / wine tour planning business while moonlighting as a marketing consultant for wine and travel business in Europe. She has been featured in Wine Enthusiast, Food & Wine Magazine, Open Skies (Emirate Airlines inflight magazine), and more.