WSET Level 1 Practice Question · Episode 7
Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)
Practice Question
What is the name of the component that typically creates a drying sensation, making the gums and the entire mouth feel rough and dry after drinking red wine?
- A. Sugar
- B. Acidity
- C. Tannin
- D. Alcohol
Answer & Explanation
Answer: C. Tannin Explanation: Tannins are primarily extracted from the skins, seeds, and stems of red grapes, as well as from the oak barrels used during maturation. Rather than just a 'bitter or astringent taste,' its most defining characteristic is that it creates a physical texture (drying sensation) that makes the gums and palate feel dry.
Key Theory Summary
Tannin is the most crucial component supporting the structure and lifespan of a red wine. 1. Drying Sensation: Tannins bind with proteins, stripping away moisture in the mouth and leaving a rough, dry feeling. 2. High Tannin: The mouth feels very dry, forming a powerful structural sensation. (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah) 3. Low Tannin: There is less resistance on the gums, and it goes down smoothly. (e.g., Pinot Noir) 4. Preservative: Tannins act as a natural preservative, preventing the oxidation of the wine and enabling long-term aging.
Expert Exam Tip
[Trap]: Thinking "Tannin is a defining characteristic of white wine" is incorrect. Because tannins mainly come from the skins, they are a core characteristic of red wines, which are fermented with their skins. [Tip]: In the exam, if you see the words 'Drying sensation' or 'Gums,' choose the keyword 'Tannin' without hesitation. The key to the answer is not the intensity of astringency, but the physical drying sensation.