Oak Tannins (Oenotannins) — Hidden Processing Agent — Is It Vegan?

Vegan status: Vegan

Also known as: Oenological tannins, Ellagitannins, Commercial tannins, Gallotannins

Source

Extracted from oak wood (Quercus robur, Quercus sessilis), oak galls, grape seeds, or grape skins. Entirely plant-derived.

Used in

Wine production (stabilisation, antioxidant activity, fining, texture modification), craft beer (structure and astringency), cider production.

Appears on label: No. Not required on labels. Wines may state 'contains tannins' for consumer information but this is not mandatory.

How to avoid

No need to avoid — oak tannins are vegan.

Notes

Tannins are a complex group of polyphenolic compounds present naturally in grape skins and seeds. Commercial oenological tannins are added to wine to improve structure, provide antioxidant protection, and aid clarification (tannins can bind and precipitate proteins). They are a vegan-friendly alternative or complement to animal-derived fining agents.