One of the best parts of my job marketing wine is that I get to try new wines and learn about varieties I had never heard of before. The Tannat is one such wine. Have you ever heard of it?
Most wine enthusiasts have never heard of Tannat. That’s no surprise given that
the varietal covers only about 140 acres in all of California (the equivalent of a
less than 25 square city blocks.) Historically, the grape was grown in South West
France. Then, in the late 1800s, it traveled to Uruguay and eventually became that
country’s national grape much the same way Malbec became the national grape
of Argentina.
For those of you that love a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat offers the
same character profile – intense, strong and satisfying – much like the mood
conveyed by its name, Jump ‘n’ Jive. That’s why it’s so often blended with
Cabernet Sauvignon. It is also frequently combined with Sangiovese, Syrah, and
other Rhone varietals. Typically matured in oak barrels, it is known for its firm
tannins, raspberry aromas, and raspberry and blackberry fruit notes.
When hearty meets hearty, it’s a match made in heaven. This type of powerful
wine calls for assertive dishes like thick red meats and rich cheeses and is best
served with foods that have a fair amount of fat. Steak tips are a nice choice in
warmer grilling weather, stuffed mini bell pepper are a great pairing with given the
herbaceous nature of this red.
Of late, the media has touted the red wine as the source of many health benefits.
Recent research by a London cardiologist revealed that Tannat is, in fact, the most
heart-healthy red wine. Evidence of this beneficial impact on longevity can be
seen in the fact that there are nearly double the number of men in their 90s in the
area of South West France where Tannat is the principal grape.
