Market Watch, November 2019
Bodega Garzón Maldonado based resort and vineyards pictured wine room inset is among the most well known Uruguayan wineries in the U S In just four years Garzóns production has risen from 10000 cases to a total of 110000 cases that number rise to 285000 cases riding a cumulative five year increase of nearly 11 with growth of 283 between 2017 and 2018 alone Such heightened interest is thanks in part to major new investments by international players among them Alejandro Bulgheroni an Argentine billionaire with holdings across Italy Argentina Australia and France in addition to Uruguay Bulgheroni established his Uruguayan estate Bodega Garzón in 2007 Unlike many of Uruguays wineries which are family owned are relatively small in stature and maintain the majority of production for their home market Garzón exports two thirds of its substantial 110000 case supply with the U S being among the most important international markets As estates like Garzón help spread awareness about Uruguayan wine greater understanding of the countrys flagship varietal Tannat has followed suit creating excitement for the grape among industry insiders and ordinary drinkers alike And slowly the unique history of Uruguays wine industry and its curious blend of Old World philosophies with New World terroir are becoming more sought after by American consumers who are ever keen on discovery Taming TannatTannat is an astringently tannic grape that originated in South West Frances Madiran AOC Following an influx of Basque migrants to Uruguay in the early 19th century the varietal was planted and soon flourished in its new home where the dry coastal terroir supported softer less tannic variations of the grape Today Tannat accounts for over a quarter of Uruguays total plantings and is commonly referred to as the countrys national grape In most other places in the world however Tannat remains unknown and unplanted Tannat is a rare uncommon varietal says Daniel Pisano marketing director NOVEMBER 2019 MARKETWATCHMAG COM MARKET WATCH 69MW1119_
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