During the 5th Edition of the Wine Extravaganza, hosted by Diplomat Magazine at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in The Hague, Uruguay was proudly represented by H.E. Mr. Alvaro Gonzalez Otero, Ambassador of Uruguay to the Netherlands. In his address to the over 200 guests attending this year, including diplomats, sommeliers, journalists, gastronomic experts, and special invitees, Ambassador Gonzalez Otero shared the remarkable story of Uruguay’s wine heritage and its bright future.
“Wine arrived in Uruguay during the second half of the 19th century, thanks to immigrant families who brought their knowledge from the Mediterranean,” he recounted. “With the experience of those pioneers as a banner, plus the work of many others who followed them, viticulture gained a foothold in Uruguay and achieved a growth that managed to replace a good part of the foreign production.”
A Rich Legacy and a National Icon: Tannat
The ambassador highlighted Uruguay’s national icon, the Tannat grape, introduced from southwest France in 1870 by Pascual Harriague. Over the years, Tannat has found ideal growing conditions in Uruguay, where “the clay soils, together with the Atlantic breeze, offer exceptional conditions for this variety.” Today, Uruguay proudly stands as the world’s largest producer of Tannat, surpassing even France in production volume.
“Uruguay is today the main producer of Tannat in the world, with production volumes that even exceed those of its place of origin,” Ambassador Gonzalez Otero noted. This flagship variety, with its strong character, has won numerous international awards and positioned Uruguay prominently on the global wine stage.
In addition to Tannat, Uruguay produces other reds such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir, along with whites like Chardonnay and Albariño, which has found “unbeatable conditions for its development” in Uruguay’s terroir.
Whether it is the powerful Tannat or one of the many other grape varieties, Uruguayan wines offer a unique combination of tradition, character, and flavor.”
Commitment to Sustainability and Tourism
Ambassador Gonzalez Otero emphasized Uruguay’s dedication to sustainable wine practices. “Right now, we also have a sustainable program, with the aim of promoting environmentally friendly viticulture,” he stated, underscoring Uruguay’s efforts to protect its land and resources for future generations.
Uruguay’s wine regions span from coast to coast, each offering unique characteristics that contribute to the diversity of its wines. The country’s wineries also welcome tourists, providing visitors with an immersive experience in Uruguayan wine culture. “We warmly invite you to discover them to experience unique moments in the different regions of the country, appreciating flavours, aromas, colours, traditions, legends, culture, landscapes, and, most importantly, the passion of its people,” the ambassador encouraged.
A Toast to Uruguayan Wines in the Netherlands
The event also featured Mr. Arjan Kiel, owner of “La Bodega Vinos,” an Amsterdam-based importer of Uruguayan wines. Mr. Arjan Kiel, owner of “La Bodega Vinos,” an Amsterdam-based importer of Uruguayan wines, has played a key role in bringing the unique flavors of Uruguay to the Netherlands. Mr. Kiel’s appreciation for Uruguay’s wines was reflected in his words:
“Uruguay is a country that continues to surprise wine lovers worldwide. With its unique Atlantic climate, rich family history and strong focus on innovation and sustainability, it offers an unparalleled wine experience in South America.
Ambassador Gonzalez Otero concluded by expressing his pride in Uruguay’s wines and the spirit they embody. “Uruguay not only offers exceptional wines, but also fascinating history, social progress and a warm welcome to visitors,” he said. “Discover Uruguay’s hidden treasure and taste the wines that are making the country a rising star in the international wine world.”
