Tannat: Emblem of the red wines of Uruguay

Tannat is a French grape variety that has found a prominent place in South America.

In the case of Uruguay, its clay soils, together with the Atlantic breeze, offer exceptional conditions for this variety. Uruguay is today the main producer of Tannat, with production volumes that even exceed those of its place of origin. Tannat wine from Uruguay can be found in wine regions such as Canelones, Maldonado or Colonia.

In the case of Argentina, and despite the fact that Tannat first arrived in Mendoza at the end of the 19th century, it tends to grow best in the Northwest region, especially in Salta, where the grape finds particular climates and terroirs that allow it to develop incredible, full-bodied wines.

Although, as always, the aromas and flavours of a wine can depend a lot on the composition of the terroir, as well as on its vinification process and its ageing (or not) in oak, Tannat wines tend to have particularly pronounced and present tannins. However, some Tannat wines from Uruguay tend to be lighter and with softer tannins.

Within its aromatic palette, red fruit aromas, such as cherries and plums, as well as figs, and smoky notes can be highlighted. Some Tannat wines from the Northwest region of Argentina can also present aromas of dried fruits, spices and floral traces. 

It is always interesting to explore the diversity that the same grape variety can offer, depending on the region of the world where its grapes grow. Tannat has come a long way from its European origins to become so particular to South America. Tasting Tannat wine from different regions is an excellent excuse to get to know the differences and similarities of a grape as special as it is vigorous.

Sources consulted: winesofargentina.org and inavi.com.uy

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