I guess you’re wondering what these two things have in common. Well, on the surface, nothing. But when you think about experiencing things outside your comfort zone and trying something new…they are very similar.
A few years ago, I went on a trip to Costa Rica. The last think I expected to try was ziplining. I mean, I’m a little bit nervous with heights and hanging from a steel cable over the canopy of a jungle was nothing I’d thought I would just jump into and try. But everyone on the trip was up for trying it so, not wanting to look like a wimp, I suited up and climbed to the top of a high pole and onto a platform. I told myself that I’d be okay if I just didn’t look down. Did I look down? Of course I did. Gulp! When it was my turn, I prayed to God that I would handle it all well and reach the next platform safely. As I launched off the platform and flew through the air over the amazing canopy of the jungle, I never felt so free and exhilarated! Wow! Incredible!
Bottom line…I tried something new and it was amazing!
So, how does this relate to Tannat? Well, if you’ve never tried this grape variety before, it may surprise you in an amazing way. Let’s dive into this varietal and maybe you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how lovely it is. Besides, it may be something outside your “comfort zone” …so go for it!
Tannat, the “healthy” red wine. This grape boasts a high level of antioxidants (reservatrol). Its origin is from Madiran in Southwest France but Uruguay is becoming a major producer of the Tannat grape as well. This thick-skinned grape can withstand many climates and is a champ at warding off the usual vineyard pests.
Tannat wine is a very affordable wine. It is very bold and tannic with complexity to spare. It can be blended with Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc (in France), Pinot Noir or Merlot (in Uruguay) to ease some of the tannins. It also can be aged for 10 years.
Color: Deep purple
Aroma and flavor Profile:
French: Red fruit (raspberry)
Uruguay: Dark fruit (plum, black raspberry, black cherry)
Both exhibit: Licorice, Vanilla, Dark chocolate, coffee, spices such as Cardamom
Foods to pair with this big, bold wine? Hearty protein centric foods and foods higher in fats (Beef, Lamb, Duck). These foods can soften the intense tannins associated with this wine.
So, try a nice, bold Tannat or Tannat blend the next time you feel like trying something new. You can try ziplining too! Both are exciting, amazing, and incredibly delicious!
Cheers!
For you Pinot lovers: It’s Pinot Noir Day today (8/18/22)!