8 Uruguayan Wines You Need In Your Life

Uruguay is the home of great food, so it stands to reason that Uruguayans would be able to produce some amazing beverages to go with it. Their fresh fish has been coupled with great national white wines like Albariños, and the country’s crown jewel has been the development of its signature red, Tannat, which makes a perfect match with red meat. This small country is the fourth largest producer of wine in Latin America, and the list below explores eight of the finest vintages Uruguay has to offer.

Estancia La Cruz Florida 1997 (Tannat)

This is an extremely good red with a marvelous aroma of cherries and other berries, along with chocolate notes. The most prominent flavor comes from the tannins of the Tannat grapes, which have dominated Uruguayan wines since they were brought over by Basque settlers almost four hundred years ago. Tradition runs deep in this bottle of wine, and its aftertaste envelops the mouth and leaves you wanting more.

Bodega Bouza – Bouza Albariño (Albariño)

The Albariño is a particular variety of white grape brought over from Iberia, which is now also popular in California and Australia. This particular white wine has a noticeable botanical aroma almost reminiscent of peaches. It is a modern Uruguayan take on the Iberian classic.

Viña Eden Chardonnay 2015 (Chardonnay)

This young winery is the perfect example of the triumph of passion and precision in wine-making. It has a welcome innovative fervor that is uncommon in the world of wine. This vintage has a fresh balance with elements of coconut, pineapple, and a touch of citrus that has an exciting finish that lasts on the tongue. Expect to hear a lot more about this vineyard and its wines in the near future.

Familia Deicas – 1er cru Garage 2000/2006 (Tannat)

This Tannat wine by Familia Deicas is a treat for any wine enthusiast. The winery, or bodega, has been passed down over the generations and prides itself on its fusion of tradition and innovation. Presently, this winery combines several techniques and styles that are adapted from locations all around the world.

Bodega Garzón – Albariño 2013 (Albariño)

This wonderfully crisp white wine is an affordable taste of charm and distinction that has a light body and smooth finish. It is from a nationally celebrated winery near the city of Punta del Este, and as such it is the perfect companion of fresh seafood dishes and rich salads.

Alto de la Ballena – Reserva Tannat-Viognier (Tannat-Viognier)

This bodega is small and relatively new to the game, but what it lacks in age it makes up for in quality. They have a highly-celebrated vintage that combines the classic Uruguayan Tannat with 15 percent fragrant Viognier from France with delicious consequences.

Bodega Bouza – Tannat B1 Parcela Única (Tannat)

This is one of most renowned wineries in Uruguay. They are famous for their range of reds and whites that stretch through every price bracket. One of their most acclaimed bottles that is especially tasty is the Tannat B1 Parcela Única of the 2015 vintage.

Viña Varela Zarranz – Brut Nature (Chardonnay-Viognier)

This is a truly remarkable sparkling wine composed of 50 percent Chardonnay and 50 percent French Viognier. It is light bodied, containing delicate notes of candied white fruits and toasted bread before a dry finish. It is an incredible sparkling wine that goes great with starters and desserts alike.