Tannins: these are acids that give wine an astringent quality. They can nicely balance a fruity taste, or overwhelm the mouth with acidity. A more tannic style is often an acquired taste, but one worth developing.

2torial #0585: Learn2 Speak Wine (Continued) Look at the Wine   Quite a few areas of the world are well known for producing good wine. Of course they also produce some real stinkers, but the first indication of good wine is where it comes from; unlike beer (which can be made almost anywhere), quality wine can be made from grapes growing in relatively few places in the world. Here are a few: The United States makes great wine. The best-known has traditionally originated in California, particularly from Napa and Sonoma counties. Oregon is also highly regarded, but solid wineries are developing from coast to coast. The French have been famous for wine for so long that it's not funny. Wines from Bordeaux and Burgundy regions are probably the most widely available, along with Champagne, of course. Italian wines can be marvelous. Chianti and Tuscany are the best known worldwide. Spumanti is a popular Italian sparkler. The Spanish make very good sparkling wines, called Cava, along with their Rioja (reds) and Sherry. Chilean wines are known for being good values. The United States imports a lot of reasonably priced, but very good Chilean red wine. Australia is an up and coming wine producer on the world market, and their Shiraz is generally a good bet. Step 2