Uruguay
Fair, 16C, Montevideo
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.
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. Tannat now 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 have also dedicated themselves to producing the best French stocks, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, or white wines like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, which are often fermented in oak barrels.
