Eclavin

WSET Level 2 Practice Question · Episode 4

L2 • Ep 4
WSET L2 Quiz

When you take a sip of wine and swirl it around your mouth, which component is responsible for creating a 'drying' sensation on the gums and a grippy texture between the teeth?

AAcidity
BTannin
CAlcohol
DSweetness
Eclavin | Wine Study
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When you take a sip of wine and swirl it around your mouth, which component is responsible for creating a 'drying' sensation on the gums and a grippy texture between the teeth?

Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)

Practice Question

When you take a sip of wine and swirl it around your mouth, which component is responsible for creating a 'drying' sensation on the gums and a grippy texture between the teeth?

  • A. Acidity
  • B. Tannin
  • C. Alcohol
  • D. Sweetness

Answer & Explanation

Answer: B. Tannin Explanation: Tannins are natural compounds extracted from the skins and seeds of red wine grapes. They react with proteins in your saliva, creating a physical 'drying' sensation on the gums and palate. In contrast, Acidity makes the mouth water (mouth-watering), and Alcohol provides a sensation of warmth in the throat and chest after swallowing.

Expert Exam Tip

[Trap]: Do not simply think that "Tannins taste bitter." Tannins are primarily evaluated by their 'Texture' rather than their taste for accurate assessment. [Tip]: In the L2 exam, if you see the term 'Mouth-watering', immediately select 'High Acidity'. Your salivary glands are the best proof of a wine’s structural character.