Tannat is much more than a grape variety: it is the winemaking soul of the South-West! With a strong character, robust tannins, and incredible aging potential, it can be found from the vineyards of Madiran all the way to Uruguay. This variety truly deserved an article to showcase its qualities.
Ready to explore the fascinating world of Tannat ? Enjoy your reading!
Summary
History and origins of the Tannat grape variety
The exact origins of Tannat remain mysterious. However, it is likely that its roots go back to the South-West region and to Antiquity, a period when Basque and Pyrenean peoples had active trade with the Romans. The Tannat grape variety could indeed be a descendant of local varieties or grapevines imported by the Romans.
In the Middle Ages, under the influence of monasteries and abbeys, winemaking practices were profoundly transformed in France and Europe. In Béarn and the Madiran region, monks planted vines adapted to the local terroir. It was probably at this time that a first version of Tannat, then known by names such as "Moustroun" or "Bordelais noir," made its entry into the region's vineyards.
During the Renaissance, wine took on greater cultural significance and winemaking techniques improved. Tannat gradually stood out and became one of the region's signature wines. It was cultivated in the vineyards of Madiran, Saint-Mont, and Irouléguy. It was also during this period that the term "tanat" appeared, originating from the Occitan word "tan," in reference to tannins and the dark color of the berries.
In the 18th century, Tannat definitively established itself as a major grape variety in the South-West of France, and particularly in Madiran.
Today, Tannat is world-renowned for its tannic richness and its ability to produce delicious age-worthy wines.
Madiran, a stronghold in the South-West for Tannat
Where is the Tannat grape variety grown?
With 2,700 hectares planted in France, including 1 000 just within the Madiran AOC, Tannat holds a special place in our vineyards. Other appellations in the region such as Irouléguy, Saint-Mont, Cahors, Brulhois, and Tursan also have plots of this grape variety.
If Tannat has particularly developed in the region, it is above all thanks to a favorable climate and soils. The Madiran terroir is indeed characterized by well-drained soils, gravelly, clay-limestone, and sometimes silty...ideal land for Tannat.
Influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, the temperate climate of Madiran is also a key element for our variety. The local climatic conditions help preserve its acidity while allowing its tannins to soften during the ripening process.
Outside France, Tannat is also the iconic grape variety of Uruguay, where it is planted on more than 1 500 hectares. It is simply the most widely planted variety in the country !
At the heart of the Madiran vineyards
The characteristics of the Tannat grape variety
Tannat is easily recognizable by its tight clusters and thick-skinned berries, taking on an intense blue-black color.
When young, wines made from this grape are marked by black fruit flavors such as cherry, blackberry, plum, and blackcurrant. Tannat can also express spicy notes like black pepper and hints of licorice.
As it ages, the aroma profile evolves to reveal notes of undergrowth, mushroom, leather, even truffle...quite a journey !
The high polyphenol content and tannic structure of Tannat also give its wines a great aging potential. The variety also has good acidity, helping to balance its power on the palate.
Finally, in Uruguay, Tannat tends to produce wines with softer tannins and fruity aromas. Locally, it is often blended with Merlot, making the wines smoother and more approachable in their youth.
Which dishes pair well with Tannat wines?
With its strong tannic structure and aromatic power, Tannat calls for rich and generous pairings. Here are some suggestions to enhance your tastings.
Wines made from Tannat pair wonderfully with red and white meats, grilled or roasted. Imagine your Madiran served with duck breast or braised beef rib...a delight!
Charcuterie is also an excellent match with young and supple Tannat wines. Their more polished tannins pair well with the fat.
For a vegetarian option, try a tomato and eggplant tatin ! Its caramelized texture and slightly sweet notes will pair perfectly with the robustness of the grape variety.
Finally, although white wine is generally a better match for cheese, you can try pairing an old vintage of Tannat, with mellowed tannins, with Tomme des Pyrénées, Ossau-Iraty, or Bethmale. These farmhouse cheeses will then offer a pleasant contrast with the complex and powerful aromas of our variety.
Grilled meats and Tannat: the ultimate pairing to enhance every bite
The must-visit estates to discover Tannat
To discover exceptional Tannat wines, turn to the iconic estates of the South-West ! We naturally recommend Châteaux Bouscassé & Montus. Under the guidance of the brilliant Alain Brumont, these two properties have brought Tannat to worldwide fame and put the great Madiran appellation back in the spotlight. Here are some details about each of them.
Château Montus
Acquired by Alain Brumont in 1980, the Château Montus vineyard is located on steep slopes with clay-gravel soils. These are south-facing, ideal conditions for growing Tannat. From the start, Alain Brumont innovated here by adopting modern viticultural and winemaking techniques, such as selecting old vines or aging in new barrels, a rarity for the region at the time!
Don't hesitate to try the estate's wines: powerful red wines, structured, with fine tannins and great aging potential.
Château Bouscassé
Château Bouscassé, also owned by Alain Brumont, is located on varied soils (mainly clay-limestone and marl), allowing for great diversity of expression for Tannat and other local grape varieties.
At Bouscassé, Brumont further explores blends, sometimes marrying Tannat with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, to produce balanced and accessible wines. Bouscassé wines are therefore generally softer than those of Montus, while retaining great complexity and a marked regional typicity.
As you can see, Tannat is a grape variety that leaves a lasting impression ! With its aromatic power, robust tannins, and both fruity and spicy notes, it takes us on an unforgettable tasting journey. If you are ready to explore all its richness, you will find at La Cave Éclairée a delicious selection of wines from this grape, as well as many other treasures from the South-West. Cheers !
