(English) Both cheese and wine were introduced in Uruguay by families of immigrants that arrived to these lands more than 250 years ago. Today, many vineyards, wineries and local cheese artisan producers open their doors to curious guests and tourists from all over the world delighted to taste these hidden Uruguayan gastronomy treasures!

Highlights

Uruguayan wine, the mysterious “Tannat”: The country’s wine heritage goes back to the first Spanish and Italian immigrants who brought the grapevine some 250 years ago. In 1874, a French Basque immigrant named Harriague imported grapevine cuttings of the obscure French variety called Tannat (”Tah-naht.”) This red grape, usually grown only in Madiran, a small wine region in Southwestern France, produces dark, dense red wines of extremely tannic nature (the name “Tannat” is said to stem directly from “tannin”), so harsh and unyielding that they often require years of aging to become drinkable. Tannat proved an excellent match for the soil and climate in Uruguay, and it has become the country’s leading variety, as closely associated with the place as “Malbec” has become the trademark variety for Argentina. Uruguayan Artisan Cheese: On the other hand, the knowledge on “Artisan Cheese” was introduced in Uruguay by immigrants of Swiss origin. After settling in the Province of Colonia, they founded what is nowadays “Colonia Suiza” and as soon as the activity of the first producers showed to be profitable, they were imitated by the nearby towns extending the artisan cheese production area to the Province of San Jose.

Blanketed by wetlands, native forest, coastal lagoons, palm groves and sandy and rocky beaches, you will be able to feel connected with the traditions of this unexplored country. On this leisurely walk we’ll skirt the most diverse landscapes and experience the hidden treasures found on paths less travelled. Visit historic ranches, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and get to know the people who have lived here for generations. This tour has been especially designed for people who love to learn and experience nature, cultures and traditional meals without sacrificing comfort. It has native bilingual guides, who, along with the local people, will help each visitor, experience the wonders of this country, immersed in a safe, friendly and natural environment.

Dates & Costs

Important Notes

Lares terms & conditions apply.

Day by day Itinerary

Day 1: Colonia

Ferry to Colonia (not included). Meet and greet the LARES English driver guide at Colonia Port. City Tour in Colonia, visit to Bernardi Winery, a small winery in Colonia known for its artisan production of fine wines and “grappas” elaborated with their own grapes. The “Grappa” is a typical strong italian drink produced with the residue of the different selection of grapes. This is how we have “Grappa Moscatel”, “Grappa Tannat”, “Grappa Merlot”. We will then enjoy lunch at Estancia La Vigna where we will visit the dairy where homemade goat cheese is elaborated. After lunch, we will continue our trip to Estancia Finca Piedra, located in the sleepy railway town of “Mal Abrigo”, over the “Mahoma” mountain range in the province of San. This estancia with stone grounds, smooth winds, glades and streams, is an ideal place that combines rest, excellent gastronomy, horse riding and exclusive wine stock from their own vineyard!

Day 2: Colonia – Montevideo

Horse back riding and visit to vineyards. Lunch at the estancia; guests will be able to enjoy native gastronomy, and taste organic foods brought to the table directly from the estancia fields. “Parillas” or indoor barbeques are a favorite among guests with fresh Uruguayan meats and flavors! All accompanied by the most exquisite wines. In the afternoon, transfer to Montevideo and visit to La Chacra Cheese Farm where we will be able to taste the typical homemade cheeses some of which have been macerated in tannat wine giving the cheese a very particular taste. After this visit, we will make a second stop at Carrau Winery, just before we continue our trip to the Belmont House Hotel where we will spend a pleasant night.

Day 3: Montevideo

After breakfast, morning City tour with lunch at Mercado del Puerto. In the afternoon, we will visit Juanico and Bouza Vineyards with tasting included. Afternoon transfer to the port. Ferry to Buenos Aires (ferry not included).

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