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South America

From Vinopedia

South America is a significant wine-producing continent, with Argentina and Chile among the largest global exporters and Uruguay and Brazil contributing distinct regional identities.[1] Viticulture has expanded across varied climates, from the high-altitude vineyards of the Andes to the humid plains of southern Brazil.

Historical development

Viticulture was introduced to South America by Spanish and Portuguese colonists in the 16th century, who brought Vitis vinifera to both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.[2] Chile and Argentina developed large-scale plantings during the 19th century, when European varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec were established.[3] In the 20th century, the industry modernised with improved cellar technology and vineyard management, while the late 20th and early 21st centuries saw globalisation drive exports to North America and Europe.[4]

Geography and viticultural conditions

The Andes mountain range shapes viticulture in much of the continent, providing high-altitude sites and meltwater irrigation for regions such as Mendoza in Argentina.[5] Chile benefits from Pacific coastal influences, with cool-climate valleys producing fresh whites, while its inland zones favour structured reds.[6] Uruguay’s temperate Atlantic climate supports robust reds, while Brazil cultivates vines in both southern temperate zones and tropical areas, the latter requiring disease-resistant varieties.

Grapes and wine styles

Argentina is renowned for Malbec, which has become its flagship grape and produces wines ranging from fruity to structured styles.[7] Chile grows a wide array of grapes, with Cabernet Sauvignon prominent, alongside the rediscovered Carmenère, which has become a national speciality.[8] Uruguay’s identity is tied to Tannat, producing deeply coloured and tannic wines. Brazil, while less internationally known, has gained recognition for sparkling wines made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, often produced by the traditional method.

Markets and reputation

South American wine has become a major force in global trade, with Chile and Argentina leading exports to Europe, North America and Asia.[9] Uruguay and Brazil remain smaller in scale but increasingly contribute to the continent’s profile, with boutique producers and sparkling wines gaining international attention. Collectively, South America is seen as part of the New World of wine, characterised by innovation and accessibility.

See also

References

  1. ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
  2. ↑ Pinney, A History of Wine in America: From the Beginnings to Prohibition, University of California Press, 1989, ISBN 978-0520062249.
  3. ↑ Ferrer, El vino argentino: Tradición y modernidad, Editorial Planeta, 2012, ISBN 978-9504932084. (Spanish)
  4. ↑ Anderson & Pinilla, Wine Globalization: A New Comparative History, Cambridge University Press, 2018, ISBN 978-1108411238.
  5. ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
  6. ↑ Huneeus, A Concise History of the Chilean Wine Industry, Ediciones Universidad Católica de Chile, 2006, ISBN 978-9561418800. (Spanish)
  7. ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
  8. ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
  9. ↑ Anderson & Pinilla, Wine Globalization: A New Comparative History, Cambridge University Press, 2018, ISBN 978-1108411238.
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