▻ Uruguay

Let's Talk About

16 Dec

Written By Sarah Kemp

▴ Steven Spurrier, photo by Lucy Pope — *▴ Steven Spurrier, photo by Lucy Pope*

In conversation with Steven Spurrier

Episode Summary:-

There can’t be many wine lovers today who have not drunk the wines of Argentina and Chile. Hugely popular across the globe, these two countries provide consumers with consistently exciting wines, whether full-bodied sensual Malbecs or zesty vibrant Sauvignon Blancs. In this episode we look at the wines of Uruguay, a relative newcomer on the international wine scene, despite having a tradition of wine making which goes back to the 19th century. This small South American country is gaining a huge reputation with wine critics, not least with Steven Spurrier, one of the world’s greatest tasters. Steven talks about his first trip there, his impressions of the country, which grapes have a future and the wineries which impressed him most. Here is a unique insight into the small country which has the wine scene all abuzz.

““I don’t think Tannat can ever be described as sophisticated. It’s not unsophisticated, but that’s not the point of it. The point of it is to be robust.””

— Steven Spurrier

Running Order:-

0.00 – 20.00
The first encounter

“I describe Uruquay as the Europe of South America" Steven Spurrier

Steven Spurrier tells us how he is persuaded to go to Uruguay to taste the wines. He discusses with Sarah Kemp the grape varieties he believes are doing particularly well there and explains how they differ in expression from the same varieties in the rest of South America.
20.00 – 23.00
Recommendations

“Cabernet Franc is their second best grape variety" Steven Spurrier.

Steven Spurrier reveals which producers stood out, and which wines really made a mark on him.