10 Must-Visit South America Wine Regions for Wine Lovers!

South America is home to some of the best wine regions in the world. It’s a wine lovers paradise! With a winemaking history that dates back to the 16th century, the region has a rich history with its own unique wine!

While Argentina and Chile are home to the most famous wine regions in South America, you can find vineyards and wineries across many of the countries on the continent!

I collaborated with some of my fellow bloggers to discover the 10 must-visit South America wine regions!

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South America Wine Regions

1. Mendoza, Argentina

Recommended by Carryn from Torn Tackies Travel Blog

Mendoza is the leading wine region in Argentina, famous for its high-quality malbec wines. There are over 1,000 wineries in Mendoza, many of which offer unspoiled views of the Andes Mountain range.

Within the region, you’ll find three diverse grape growing areas. These include Maipu, Lujan de Cuyo and Valle de Uco (or Uco Valley). Maipu is the oldest of the three while Valle de Uco is the fastest growing with vast vineyards and grand cellar doors. They are all located within an hours’ drive from each other so you can easily visit all three areas in one trip.

Mendoza is a fun wine region to explore as it’s so diverse. You can rent bicycles and cycle between the wineries in Maipu and Lujan de Cuyo. Or you can opt for a lavish degustation menu in the Uco Valley. But the quality of the wines is the standout attraction. You won’t be disappointed!

Winery recommendations: 

• Bodega Viamonte
• Bodegas Enzo Bianchi

2. Cafayate, Argentina

Recommended by Alex Trembath, Career Gappers

Cafayate sits towards the northern end of Argentina’s famous Ruta 40, one of the world’s longest roads at over 5,000 kilometres. It is one of the world’s highest-altitude wine regions, perched at well over 1,500 metres above sea level. Wine-making in Cafayate dates back to the early 19th century, when the town was founded, and it is home to the oldest living vineyard in Argentina.

Today, Cafayate remains a small yet charming wine region with nearly 2,000 hectares of vineyards and a dozen or so family-run bodegas.

Argentina is most famous for the malbec wines produced in Mendoza, but Cafayate offers a unique and alternative experience. The region is widely renowned for its production of white wines using the native Torrontés grape.

At a little shop in the town’s old square you can also try wine ice cream! Cafayate town is surrounded by spectacular rugged landscapes, such as the ancient red rock formations of Quebrada del Rio de las Conchas, so it’s well worth incorporating into a road trip itinerary for north-west Argentina.

Winery Recommendations: 

• Bodega Nanni
• Domingo Hermanos

3. Catamarca, Argentina

Nestled in the northwestern corner of Argentina, the province of Catamarca may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of world-class wine regions. However, this hidden gem is quietly making a name for itself in the world of viticulture. Catamarca, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is now gaining recognition for its incredible wine industry.

The vineyards of Catamarca are perched on the eastern slopes of the Andes, where the combination of elevation and a dry climate creates optimal conditions for growing grapes. Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Torrontés are among the varietals thriving in this unique environment, and can be found at many of the wineries of the region.

One of the key factors that sets Catamarca apart is its commitment to sustainable and organic winemaking practices. Many wineries in the region embrace traditional and eco-friendly methods, ensuring that the natural beauty of the landscape is preserved.

Winery Recommendations:

• Bodega Alta Esperanza
• Bodega Michango

4. Campanha, Brazil

When it comes to South America wine regions, Brazil’s Campanha may not be as widely recognized as its Argentine and Chilean counterparts, but that’s precisely what makes it a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts seeking something off the beaten path. Located in the southernmost part of Brazil, Campanha is stunning, with its sprawling vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and a blossoming wine scene.

The unique terroir of Campanha allows it to grow diverse grape varietals. The warm days and cool nights, coupled with the mineral-rich soils, contribute to the distinctive character of Campanha’s wines, offering a taste that is both authentic and memorable. Both Tannat and Moscato grow well here, ensuring that there is something for every visitor!

One standout feature of Campanha’s wine culture is its emphasis on family-owned and boutique wineries. Unlike some larger wine-producing regions, Campanha prides itself on its intimate, personalized approach to winemaking.

Winery Recommendations:

• Seival Estate
• Almaden Winery

5. Tarija Valley, Bolivia

Recommended by Explore Baja California

Although Bolivia isn’t known as a wine destination, it has a hidden secret: a scenic Tarija Valley that produces some of the best wine in South America that can easily rival Argentinian and Chilean wine, and cost less money. 

Tarija Valley is located in southern Bolivia, known for its picturesque landscapes and vineyards. The vines in the Tarija region grow at altitudes up to 2100 meters.

Tarija Valley is situated in the southern part of Bolivia, near the border with Argentina. 

If you want to explore one of the best under-radar wine regions in the world, Tarija Valley is a must. 

Located 8 hours away from Sucre, Bolivia’s constitutional capital, and 10 hours from the world-famous Salar de Uyuni, this gem boasts spectacular views of the Andes, and the cool dry weather with plenty of sunshine that helps to produce some of the best types of Tannat wine.

Winery Recommendations:

• Bodega Juan Diablo, Barbaana
• Bolivia Kohlberg

6. Casablanca Valley, Chile

Submitted by Erin of Wanderlust with Kids

Set between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains, the Casablanca Valley is one of the top wine regions in Chile, blending coastal influences with optimal terroir. Established in the late 20^th century, this valley has become renowned for its cool-climate viticulture, providing an ideal environment for cultivating exceptional grape varieties.  Home to a growing number of wineries, the Casablanca Valley boasts over 30 wineries, each contributing the the region’s reputation or producing crisp whites and vibrant reds. 

Casablanca Valley emerges as a premier choice among the wine regions in South America, inviting visitors with its cool-climate environments and diverse varietals, notably Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. Renowned wineries like Emiliana showcase a commitment to sustainable viticulture and offer an excellent tasting experience. The region’s picturesque landscapes, framed by the Pacific Ocean and the Andes, create a stunning backdrop for vineyard exploration, and its easy access from the capital city of Santiago, make it an excellent choice for wine tasting in South America.

Winery Recommendations:

• Casas del Bosque- one of the most prestigious wineries in the Casablanca Valley. Their diverse portfolio includes Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Syrahs, as well as an excellent Carmenere. Their emphasis is on fresh, coastal wines and they offer a variety of tours, ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours in length. 
• Emiliana is another great winery to visit. Known for their commitment to organic and biodynamic practices, Emiliana Winery stands out as a pioneer in sustainable winemaking. Their vineyards, surrounded by lavender and other herbs, produce distinct Sauvignon Beans and Pinot Noirs. They also offer a range of excellent reds, from Cabernet Sauvignon to their signature GE label.

7. Colchagua Valley, Chile

Nestled in the heart of central Chile, the Colchagua Valley remains one of the premier wine regions in South America. Just a scenic drive of about 100 miles southwest of Santiago, this picturesque region is a wine enthusiast’s haven.

What sets Colchagua Valley apart is its dedication to crafting exceptional red wines. The grape varietals that grow best here include Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Carménère.

Throughout the year, Colchagua Valley has many wine festivals and events that celebrate its rich viticultural heritage.

Winery Recommendations:

• Montes
• Viu Manent

8. Maipo Valley, Chile

Nestled at the foot of the Andes Mountains in Chile, the Maipo Valley is one of the world’s most premier wine growing regions. The Maipo Valley’s unique terroir, characterized by a combination of alluvial soils and a Mediterranean climate, creates an ideal environment for producing premium grape varieties. Cabernet Sauvignon, in particular, thrives in this picturesque landscape, yielding wines that boast bold “cold climate” flavors and a distinct sense of place.

As you travel around the Maipo Valley, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery that unfolds around every vineyard. The lush green vineyards against the rugged backdrop of the Andes creates beautiful scenery that makes wine tasting here even more special.

Many wineries in the Maipo Valley welcome visitors to experience the winemaking process firsthand, offering guided tours and tastings that showcase the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

9. Valley of the Sun, Colombia

Recommended by Giorgy, G-Extreme Travel

The wine region is characterized by its unique terroir, resulting from its high altitude location in the Chicamocha canyon. The vineyards are graced with ample sunlight and a climate that helps produce distinctive, high-quality wines. While the exact date of establishment is not known, the region’s wine production has grown significantly over the past 15 years.

Visiting the Valle del Sol offers more than just wine tasting. Its stunning landscapes, rich history, and the opportunity to explore the local culture make it a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast.

Winery Recommendations:

• Marques de Villa de Leyva is known for its commitment to quality and innovation
• Vinos Don Cristobal offers a fantastic selection of wines produced in the high mountains of Colombia.

10. Canelones Region, Uruguay

Recommended by Kim of Explore Your Bucket List

Winemaking in Uruguay dates to the 1870s when the Italians immigrated here.  The region of Canelones is in the southern zone of Uruguay and is one of the largest regions in the area with more than 120 wineries. Similar to how clay soil affects the structure of wine in Canada’s Niagara Region, the clay soil here gives the wine a nice balance with good acidity.

The most popular grape varietal is Tannat. While the Tannat grape was initially brought by the Italians, the French also brought their version which is very full-bodied and known for strong tannins. This is the grape being used now and thankfully the warmer climate in this region makes the wine much softer and more enjoyable. Here you can enjoy the signature wine of Uruguay that is made with a unique grape that isn’t typically grown outside of this region.

Winery Recommendations:

• Pizzarno Family Estates – This family-run winery dates to 1910. They produce high-quality wines using a delicate balance of old-world traditions and modern technologies. They are known for their Tannat and several other red and white varieties.
• Antigua Bodega – A sixth-generation winery with female management that is focused on producing sustainable wine. Their wine is made with only estate grapes that are left to grow in a natural environment. You can enjoy several whites and reds at the winery.

Summary

While it might not be what you first think of when it comes to wine, but there are many fantastic wine regions in South America to explore!

And, there’s wine regions all over the world! I also recommend you check out the most underrated wine regions in Europe, and the most underrated wine regions in the United States if you are looking for inspiration for your next wine tourism trip!

Cheers!