Brazil — wine

Serra Gaúcha

Brazil's premier wine region in the highlands of Rio Grande do Sul near the Argentine border. Italian immigrant heritage defines Serra Gaúcha's wine culture, with Merlot and Moscato Giallo as flagship varieties alongside sparkling wines from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The cool mountain climate (700–800m elevation) enables genuine wine quality in a tropical country.

Year Rating Notes
2023 Challenging rainfall patterns but skilled producers made quality wines.
2022 Balanced vintage with fine sparkling wine production.
2021 Record exports as international recognition surged; exceptional quality.
2020 Cooler than average; elegant wines with natural acidity.
2019 Consistent quality across varieties; strong sparkling wine year.
2018 Outstanding vintage widely considered a benchmark for the region.
2017 Heat events mid-season but cool nights preserved aromatic freshness.
2016 Excellent growing season with balanced rainfall; classic vintage character.
2015 Wet spring challenged growers; best producers harvested late for concentration.