Acidity, alcohol and astringency are sometimes confused when tasting a wine.
Acidity: The acidity of a wine is detected on the lateral edges of the tongue, causing a sharp tingling sensation and salivation. In the sweeter wines, the acidity helps in its balance, making the wines more pleasant.
Alcohol: Alcohol causes a warm, burning sensation in the entire mouth, which is more intense the higher the alcohol content of the wine, and does not cause the salivation characteristic of acidity.
Astringency: Dry and rough mouth sensation, more pronounced when the wine is placed next to the gums of the front teeth (incisors), caused by the tannins, especially when they are not ripe. The tannins contribute to the richness of the wines' texture and may also confer a bitter taste at the back of the mouth.
Understanding Wine.