Phenol-protein interaction: binding, not reaction

The standard

A non-covalent binding is reversible and depends on temperature, pH value and concentration; it describes an attachment, not a chemical transformation of the substances involved.

Criteria

• The attachment rests on weak, reversible forces
• It depends on pH value, temperature and concentration
• It concerns tannins and proteins, not colour or acid constituents
• Its outcome ranges from soluble attachment to precipitation

Distinction

Phenol-protein interaction ≠ fining: fining uses this binding deliberately, the interaction itself is the underlying process. Phenol-protein interaction ≠ astringency: astringency is the perceived consequence in the mouth, the non-covalent binding its material cause.