Bordered by the Uruguay River, the Río de la Plata, and the Atlantic Ocean, Uruguay today boasts 180 wineries, most of them family-owned, that between them produce 10 million cases of wine annually.

Uruguayan’s tend to prefer reds and over the last 30 years Uruguayan wine has become synonymous with Tannat. But, given the country’s oceanic climate, white wines influenced by the sea are now also beginning to attract attention as producers new and old look to venture into new territory. Uruguay is beginning to produce a growing range of flavors to tempt curious drinkers.

Here are two fine examples of delicious white wines from Uruguay:

2022 BraccoBosca Ombú Moscatel ($16)

The Ombú is a native tree of South America. On their winery, there is one Ombú tree where the previous landowners used to hide golden coins. So, the family that owns the winery has always thought there is treasure buried there. But, actually, they believe the real treasure is the vineyard where they produce this exclusive wine. This Wine is made from 100% dry Moscatel. It is pale straw in color with green highlights. On the nose it has medium-intensity notes of citrus, pear and sweet notes of honey. On the palate it is light bodied, with flavors of apricot, mandarin Orange and honey, Although it is not really sweet, it does have slight sweet flavor on the finish. (13% ABV)

2022 Marichal Sauvignon Blanc ($14)

This wine is made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc from Etchevarrîa, Canelones which is located just 25 km from the Rio de la Plata. The vineyards are divided into two parcels, one that is 8 years old and the other that is 22 years old. The wine was manually harvested and fermented for 15 days without malolactic fermentation or oak aging. It is medium straw in color with aromas of grass, melon and herbs. On the palate it is medium-bodied with fresh citrus flavor and a hint of tartness to go along with the refreshing acidity. (12.7% ABV)

Both of these white wines from Uruguay are nice examples of the quality and affordability of wines coming from their country. These are great examples of wines that fit right in as Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Samples Provided by the noted wineries via Creative Palate Communications