Uruguay
Uruguay is the third most important wine country in South America after the much larger Argentina and Chile. The vineyards are almost entirely in 2 regions. Just inland from Montevideo and up on the Brazilian border, close to the main Brazilian vineyards of Rio Grade del sul.
The vineyards around Montevideo count as coastal and warm (but not hot); the sea currents are warm too so there are no Californian-style fogs; they are on a low rise above sea level so there is little day / night temperature variation as there is in much of Argentina, Chile, Australia and New Zealand; there is some of rain and cloud cover during the growing season as in Europe. In fact the growing condition are fairly ‘European’, and so it comes as no surprise that the wines are fairly ‘European’ rather than ‘New World’ in style.
Finding wines here which show restraint, elegance and balance, quite different to the ‘bright’ or explosive character of so many South American wines may be a surprise, but it is not the biggest surprise that Uruguay has in store for us. Uruguay is the only country in the world where significant amounts of Tannat are grown, more even than in its native Madiran and Irouléguy in south-west France.
The Tannat grape was introduced into Uruguay in 1870 by Basque immigrants and has transformed itself into the “national variety”, adapting itself perfectly to the local soil and climate. Considered an exotic grape variety, demand for Tannat is increasing rapidly. Tannat represents approximately a third of all wine produced in Uruguay.
Tannat makes a red wine of intense colour, good aroma and body which is well suited to accompany beef and other red meats. It is a strong wine with a great personality which will certainly surprise you. Many Uruguayan wine growers age their Tannat wine in oak barrels, and its complexity and solid structure also allow for stylish combinations with various grapes, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Shiraz.
Uruguayan wine growers also produce the main international varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and whites like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. There is also some Pinot which is pretty good.
We always have a great time when we go to Uruguay. The growers are extremely pleased that we make the effort to come and see them and put on a good show. We meet some great characters.
Do come on a South American Wine Tour with us.
Partly Cloudy, 33C, Montevideo
Chile, Argentina & Uruguay
20 February - 2 March 2012
