The anthocyanin composition of Tannat red wines obtained with four winemaking techniques was evaluated
in different years. The wines were elaborated with traditional maceration (TM), cold pre-fermentative
maceration, delayed extraction of anthocyanins and extended maceration. Two vinifications were carried out
for each technique, employing 70 kg of grapes in each one. The anthocyanin composition of wines was
analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography–diode array detection. The results confirm the
fundamental role of the grape composition on the anthocyanin composition of the wines. The winemaking
had an important effect on the total concentration of anthocyanins and also may modify the anthocyanic
profile of wines. The wines obtained with TM had higher or similar content of anthocyanins than those
elaborated with the other techniques. Canonical discriminant analysis of data showed that vintage has a
greater effect on anthocyanin concentration than winemaking techniques.