The Underrated Uruguayan Red That Wine Lovers Should Try

Those who enjoy sipping full-bodied red wines might find themselves frequently reaching for a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. If you want to try a new wine with a similar flavor profile, there's a certain Uruguayan wine to consider. Bodega Garzón, a family-owned winery near Uruguay's Atlantic Coast, produces Reserva Tannat, a robust red that allows drinkers to branch out and try an underrated wine that still delivers the bold flavors they know and love.

"Tannat" refers to the grape varietal, which originates from southwestern France and is especially high in antioxidants. Reserva Tannat is made entirely from Tannat grapes, which have become the most widely grown varietal in Uruguay. The deep purple wine has flavors of dark fruits, berries, tobacco, and chocolate, and soft, approachable tannins. At 14.% ABV, this is considered a full-bodied red wine.

Uruguay's neighbor, Argentina, as well as nearby Chile, often receive more international attention from wine drinkers. In these countries, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon are the grape varieties that dominate; therefore, Uruguayan wines and the Tannat grape may be less familiar. Despite its lower profile, Bodega Garzón Reserva Tannat is a highly rated Uruguayan wine with vintages scoring around 90 points, but you don't necessarily need to pay top-tier prices to try it. Reserva Tannat currently retails for around $20.00 per 750-milliliter bottle, but pricing and availability vary by retailer and vintage.

Bodega Garzón Reserva Tannat has a 4-star rating out of five from 66,774 Vivino community members. Reviews repeatedly highlight the delicious bold flavors and alluring deep color, and many agree its price tag is very reasonable. One reviewer who gave it 5 stars called the wine "perfectly balanced, complex and powerful," and "the greatest wine at this price point." Another drinker, trying Tannat for the first time, described the Reserva as an "awesome find," adding, "I'm a fan now. Love it!"

In one Reddit thread, Bodega Garzón Reserva Tannat received only positive comments, with users calling it an underrated bottle, especially for the price. A user shared, "Consistently delivering at a great price point. One of our "go-tos" for hosting BBQs in the summer."

Reserva Tannat is an ideal pairing for the grilled meats you might find at a barbecue and beyond.  Bodega Garzón suggests that it pairs well with roasted game meat and lamb's leg simmered with herbs and garlic. Naturally, the wine is a perfect complement to Uruguay's meat-heavy chivito sandwich. The wine's full-bodied character can hold up to both hearty dishes and stronger flavors, like blue cheese and aged cheeses. Bodega Garzón recommends serving this wine between 57 and 61 degrees Fahrenheit, which is slightly chilled.