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Slight Bitter Taste

I have been making my own wine now for about 2 years or so and it seems to always have a little bitter taste. I have used cherries, grapes and some concentrates and they all have the same problem. I can sweeten them and it helps but I would rather not do that if possible. Can you help me with this?
Answer From Expert Roger Bohmrich MW

This seems like a technical issue, and you should no doubt consult one of the handbooks for home winemakers. Bitterness in wine comes primarily from the flavonoid phenols and originates with the skins, pips and stems of the grape. It can also have microbiological causes. However, since you notice a bitter taste in wines made from different fruits and concentrates, it could be that your palate is particularly sensitive to bitterness. That would make you one of the so-called "Super Tasters." Do you also find black coffee unpleasantly bitter?


About Our Expert

Roger has enjoyed a lengthy career in the wine trade as an importer and retailer, and at present he is an educator, speaker and consultant. He set up and managed Millesima USA, a New York merchant affiliated with a leading European company. Previously, he served as senior executive of importers Frederick Wildman & Sons. In recent years, Roger has judged wine competitions in Argentina, Turkey, Portugal, China and the U.S. Roger is one of America's first Masters of Wine.

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