South America has a long-established place in the world in terms of wine making. The grape vines of Argentina and Chile were planted by missionaries who came from Spain with the conquistadors in the mid-sixteenth century and these two countries are the world’s fifth- and sixth-largest wine producers, respectively. And although Uruguay has only been producing wine for just over 150 years, it is an unsung hero of South American wine with a vibrant wine culture and a new generation of winemakers exploring the country’s diverse terroir. We will taste:

Casa Marin Sauvignon Blanc 2021, Aconcagua , Chile — With its numerous awards, including two-time winner for Best Sauvignon Blanc in the World (Concours Mondial du Sauvignon 2010, Decanter World Wine Awards 2010), this wine is considered Chile’s best Sauvignon Blanc and among the best Sauvignon Blancs in the world. This wine uniquely offers depth, salinity and a blend of roundness and sharp natural acidity. On the nose, a mix of stone fruit cocktail, green citrus aromas, wet stones and hints of mineral. On the palate it is saline, crisp, and clean. Ageable for 10 years. 13.5% ABV. $29.99/$10

Pablo Fallabrino Notos Nebbiolo 2020, Canelones, Uruguay — Considered one of the most environmentally sustainable countries in the world, Uruguay is also the fourth largest wine-producing country in South America. But in contrast to its neighbors (Chile, Argentina and even Brazil), Uruguay keeps more in step with its European progenitors where land small holdings are most common. Most Uruguayan farms are tiny and family-run, many dating back multiple generations, and as a result, make small amounts of wine for local consumption or sell grapes to a nearby winery (this vintage produced only 2,000 bottles). In all of Uruguay there are close to 3,500 growers but fewer than 300 wineries. With a climate similar to Bordeaux and soils clay-rich and calcareous, Uruguay is perfect for growing Tannat, a thick-skinned, red variety native to Southwest France. Blend: 90% Nebbiolo, 10% Tannat from the estate vineyard in the Atlántida region of Canelones. The nose shows bright, ripe raspberry and orange peel with underlying notes of dried herbs, flowers, and a hint of Nag Champa incense. The palate shows mandarin orange with lavender and cracked peppercorn. Light and energetic with medium acidity and high tannin. 13% ABV. $22.99/$7.50

Casarina Owen’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Mendoza, Argentina — Set in the eastern foothills of the Andes Mountains, the climate in Mendoza is dry and continental, presenting relatively few challenges for viticulturists during the growing season. Casarena is forging a different path from the other wineries in Mendoza. Instead of searching for undiscovered terroirs in new places like the Uco Valley, it is discovering the hidden gems in its home region of Lujan de Cuyo—a place full of rich tradition, potential, and unique micro-terroirs. This Cab is deep and bright red. On the nose, red and black fruit, cherries, strawberry, and hints of herbs and bell pepper notes. It has slight coffee notes totally integrated by the oak barrel. Meaty, ripe fruit flavors blend with grass and earthy notes on the palate. Good complexity and round tannins, it is full-bodied and robust with a persistent finish. 13.8% ABV. $33.50/$11