Latin America is an unexpected paradise for wine enthusiasts. With diverse climates and landscapes, it’s home to some of the world’s most unique wine regions that keep gaining more recognition globally. You’ll also find varietals that thrive here, some of them not known very well internationally. Like Zilzie red wine from Australia, Egri Bikivar “bull’s blood” red from Hungary, in South America you can try Torrontes white wine or Carmenere red.
Latin America’s wine culture offers an array of exciting options that promise rich flavors and memorable experiences. You’ll find ample tour opportunities and places to do winery tastings from Valle de Guadalupe in Mexico down to the Patagonian wine regions of Argentina.
Put these on your list if you’re a wine lover headed to any of these regions.
1. Argentina: The Iconic Malbec Capital of Mendoza
Considered as one of the top wine regions in the world, Mendoza is more than just a wine-producing region. It lies in the foothills of the Andes, with the sunny climate and mountain snow run-off making it especially favorable for growing Argentina’s most popular red grape – Malbec. Mendoza Malbecs are well known for pairing up with grilled meats, with a heavy concentration of dark fruits, robust tannins, and hints of chocolate and spice.
Apart from the quintessential Malbec, local wine tours will include superb Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo reds bred in Mendoza, as well as a few full-bodied whites like Chardonnay.
You can visit some of the world’s greatest wineries here or explore the local family wineries and enjoy wines the way they are meant to be served – with sausages, steaks, empanadas, and other typical Argentinian dishes. Besides the picturesque vineyards and beautiful mountains in Mendoza’s terrain, the location is perfect for visitors who crave taste and serenity.
For more info, see our rundown of the best wine lodges in the Mendoza region. There’s plenty to do in the area.
If you have time to explore a second Argentina wine region, you could head south to Patagonia, known for its lighter reds and whites, or head north to Cafayate to try Torrontes and other wines at the source.
2. Chile: Valle de Maipo and the Bold Flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon
Just a short distance from the capital of Santiago lies the Maipo Valley, one of the most ancient cultivated areas of wine in Chile and where the famous Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon has its origins. This region is said to rival the structured bold red wines famous the world over. As with Mendoza across the mountain, this area has some large, well-known commercial wineries open every day as well as some smaller ones that require advanced reservations or a tour booking to get into.
Also in Chile are biodynamic and organic wineries, perfect for the green wine lovers. The pest-free climate of this valley between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean makes them favored by wine lovers who not only enjoy well-made wines but also respect the ideology of ecological sustainability.
Chile’s signature varietal is Carmenere and you can find that here, as well as in the many other valleys dotting the middle of this thin country. Adding another region or two does not require a big commitment: you can use Santiago as a base and do a “hub and spoke” itinerary that heads to a different region each day.
See our reviews of the best hotels in Santiago for luxury travelers here.
3. Uruguay: Tannat’s Unique Character in Canelones
Uruguay might still be an enigma for many wine connoisseurs; however, it is worth noting that wines, especially Tannat wine, are rising stars in the industry with wine lovers looking for something different. Tannat is known for its dark color and high-profile tannins, but Tannat in Uruguay is often softer compared to the French ones, thanks to variations in the region’s climate.
The Canelones region north of Montevideo is known for some of the country’s finest Tannat wines, with rich and well-balanced profiles comprising dark fruits, plum, and pepper. This is by far the highest-production region, producing more each year than all the others added together.
For oenophiles who want something more, the Canelones vineyards carry with them different offerings of wine alongside cooked dishes, such as asado barbeque affairs. If you’re a white-wine lover, you won’t be left out: try the wines made from Albariño grapes, more commonly found in northern Portugal and Spain.
4. Brazil: The Sparkling Wines of Serra Gaucha
Carnival and exquisite sand beaches are regarded as one of the famous reasons to visit Brazil, with very little ever written about Brazilian wine. There is one area worth visiting for wine tastings, however: the Serra Gaúcha region. Located in southern Brazil, this area’s topography is that of hills and is known for its fame on sparkling wines; the region also has some good Merlot and Pinot Noir grapes.
The temperate climate, coupled with high elevation, helps winemaking in the region and produces young and fruity wines.
You’ll find a distinct Italian influence present not only in the wine but also in the cuisine. There are several charming wineries found in the area where you can enjoy Brazilian hospitality while drinking delicious and bright red wines that are comparable to the vibrant culture.
5. Peru: The Historic Vineyards of Ica Valley
Peru is better known for its distilled Pisco than its table wine, but not all its grapes turn into high-alcohol liquor. Some of the grapevines in the Ica Valley in Peru are dedicated to respectable wine production instead, as they have been doing since the Spanish started production in the 1600s. The sandy soil and dry climate lend unique flavors to the grapes, resulting in wines with a mineral finish and rich aroma.
Ica offers a wine experience unlike any other, often paired with Peruvian cuisine that includes fresh seafood and flavorful sauces. You’ll find their versions of some international standards like Cabernet Sauvignon, Moscata, and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as varietals more associated with Argentina like Malbec and Torrontes (often called Torontel here). You might also run across some that seem better suited for this area, like Petit Verdot and Ancellotta.
The Intipalka winery has a nice hotel that will do for a night, but the best place to stay in the region is Hotel Paracas a bit south. Its a Marriott Luxury Collection hotel.
6. Bolivia: Surprising Altitude Wines in Tarija
Bolivia’s Tarija Valley may be one of South America’s lesser-known wine destinations, but it is steadily gaining more attention for its high-altitude wines. Situated at more than 1,500 meters above sea level, Tarija’s high altitude produces grapes with intense flavor and unique minerality, ideal for wines like Syrah and Malbec.
The region’s artisanal approach to winemaking gives it a special charm, and the natural beauty of the valleys and mountains is perfect for travelers seeking a more remote and tranquil wine experience.
In Tarija, many wineries focus on traditional, small-batch production methods. This attention to detail is evident in every glass, and tasting wine here often feels like a more intimate, handcrafted experience.
7. Mexico: Valle de Guadalupe’s Red Wine Renaissance
Just to the south of San Diego, Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe has emerged as a vibrant wine region, especially for red wine lovers. This region, close to the Pacific Ocean, is known for its bold red blends, including varieties like Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, and Syrah. The Mediterranean-like climate contributes to the depth and balance found in these wines, making Valle de Guadalupe an exciting destination for those exploring New World wines.
With rustic-chic wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, and breathtaking landscapes, Valle de Guadalupe offers a blend of culture, wine, and cuisine. The region’s commitment to quality and innovation has positioned it as one of Latin America’s most exciting wine destinations.
The best restaurants here are on par with what you’ll find north of the border in California and the hotel scene is getting better all the time. The opening of the Banyan Tree Veya in Valle de Guadalupe is a sign of a destination on the rise.
This is not the only wine region of Mexico of course–we’ve done plenty of personal research on Guanajuato wineries near San Miguel de Allende and the wines of Aguascalientes, but this valley in Baja California Norte has the highest production and the biggest collection of tasting awards.
The best wine regions in Latin America offer you a wealth of experiences at scenic vineyards in stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a fan of Malbec, Tannat, or Cabernet Sauvignon on the red side or crisp whites and sparkling varieties each region offers unique flavors that are sure to leave a lasting impression on your wine journey. So if you are headed anywhere near these Latin American destinations, consider booking some tastings or wine tours on your next travel adventure.