Description

The year 2023 stands out as one of the warmest in recent Uruguayan history, marked by significant drought conditions. This report explores how these climatic extremes accelerated grape ripening, leading to wines with greater concentration and higher alcohol levels. In Uruguay, where no two vintages are alike, this diversity is embraced as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its winemakers. Their ability to navigate these challenges underscores a commitment to quality that continues to shape the country’s exciting wine industry.

Albariño has emerged as the leading white wine variety, surpassing Chardonnay in vineyard area. This variety, well-suited to Uruguay’s Atlantic climate, has showcased remarkable potential with fresh, aromatic, and complex wines. The expansion of Albariño reflects a broader trend towards diversification and innovation in Uruguayan white wines. From new and emerging projects to established producers, the year has been marked by vibrant developments and progress.

For this report, I tasted 389 wines from 47 producers, highlighting a year of exceptional quality and promising new directions in Uruguayan wine.

Gabi Zimmer