Uruguay is one of the less-serious wine-producing countries. The prerequisites for the production of quality wines are all there.
Uruguay was originally peopled by Natives, which were almost made extinct after their discovery in 1516. The colonization started in the 17th century. Montevideo became the capital end of the 19h century.
The growing regions around Montevideo, Canelones, San José, Colonia, Soriano, Paysandú, Florida and Durzno are on the border of the 600 m above sea-level highplains and the Argentinian pampas.
All sorts of wine, from white to red to sparkling and vermouth are made here. The native Vine Seco enjoys great popularity. It is made through a cross of red and white wines. The cross is then ripened in the sun. The most popular vines are blue Tannat, the Russian Isabella, but also Cabernet and Vidiella, Barbera and Nebbiolo, Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Blanc and Trebbiano. The Tannat is called Harriague and makes tanninrich wines that have high alcohol content and are very storable.
The INAVI (Instituro Nacional de Vitivinicultura) controls production. There is an origin-system, that leans on the Spanish Denominación de Origen.
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