Planning Your Trip to Colonia Wineries

When visiting Colonia del Sacramento wineries, timing is everything. The harvest season usually starts in February and lasts through March. This is the liveliest time to see active production. Many wineries require advanced bookings for tastings and tours. Small family estates might not have staff available for walk-ins.

Uruguay is most famous for its Tannat grapes. This red wine is bold, dark, and rich in antioxidants. Many local wineries also produce excellent Albariño for white wine lovers. Most vineyards are located within a short drive of the UNESCO World Heritage site. You can easily combine a morning tour with a sunset stroll.

Transportation is a key part of your planning phase. While some spots are near the city, many are in the Carmelo area. Carmelo is about 75 kilometers north of Colonia del Sacramento. You can hire a private driver or join a guided tour for the day. This allows you to taste wines safely without driving yourself back.

• Best Luxury: Narbona Wine Lodge
• Best History: Bodega Los Cerros de San Juan
• Best Boutique: El Legado
• Best for Groups: Familia Irurtia

12 Best Wineries and Vineyards to Visit

The region offers a diverse range of tasting experiences for every traveler. Here are our top picks for visiting Colonia del Sacramento wineries during your stay.

1. Name: Bodega Los Cerros de San Juan
   Type: Sight/Winery
   Why go: It is the oldest winery in Uruguay and a national landmark.
   Best for: History buffs and classic red wine lovers.
   Where: Paraje Los Cerros, Route 21.
   Time: 3 hours.
   Cost: Mid-range for tastings.
   Getting there: Best reached by taxi or private car.
   Tip: Visit the historic stone cellars built in the 1850s.
2. Name: Narbona Wine Lodge
   Type: Experience
   Why go: This is a world-class estate with a rustic, high-end farm feel.
   Best for: Luxury travelers and romantic couples.
   Where: Near Carmelo, Route 21.
   Time: Half-day or overnight stay.
   Cost: Premium.
   Getting there: Private shuttle or car rental.
   Tip: Try their award-winning Dulce de Leche at the on-site deli.
3. Name: El Legado Winery
   Type: Boutique Experience
   Why go: It offers an intimate look at the unique "simple cordon" vine system.
   Best for: People who want to meet the owners directly.
   Where: Route 97, Carmelo.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Affordable to Mid-range.
   Getting there: Part of a day trip from Colonia.
   Tip: Their Tannat Reserva is highly recommended by locals.
4. Name: Bodega Familia Irurtia
   Type: Sight/Winery
   Why go: One of the largest and most established family producers in the region.
   Best for: Large groups and diverse wine portfolios.
   Where: Carmelo area.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Budget-friendly tastings.
   Getting there: Public bus to Carmelo then a short taxi.
   Tip: Explore the massive underground cellar with thousands of barrels.
5. Name: Campotinto
   Type: Experience
   Why go: A Tuscan-style villa surrounded by beautifully manicured vines.
   Best for: Photoshoots and relaxing afternoon lunches.
   Where: Carmelo Wine District.
   Time: 3-4 hours if dining.
   Cost: Mid-to-High.
   Getting there: Private transportation recommended.
   Tip: Order the picnic basket to enjoy among the vines.
6. Name: Bodega Zubizarreta
   Type: Winery
   Why go: Features deep Basque heritage and traditional winemaking techniques.
   Best for: Families and traditionalists.
   Where: Near the city of Carmelo.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Take a taxi from the Carmelo bus terminal.
   Tip: Their white blends are surprisingly refreshing in summer.
7. Name: Almacén de la Capilla (Cordano)
   Type: Experience
   Why go: A rustic, fifth-generation farm that feels like stepping back in time.
   Best for: Casual tasters and vintage shop lovers.
   Where: Opposite the Santuario del Carmen.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Lower cost.
   Getting there: Easy addition to a Carmelo driving loop.
   Tip: Buy a bottle of "Between Two Bridges" (Entre Dos Puentes) wine.
8. Name: Bodega Bernardi
   Type: Winery
   Why go: It is very close to the Colonia city center compared to Carmelo spots.
   Best for: Travelers with limited time.
   Where: Just outside Colonia del Sacramento town.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Very affordable.
   Getting there: Short taxi ride from the historic center.
   Tip: This is a great stop if you aren't heading all the way to Carmelo.
9. Name: Hacienda del Sacramento
   Type: Sight/Winery
   Why go: A newer project focusing on high-quality Tannat and olive oil.
   Best for: Foodies interested in olive oil production.
   Where: Near the Real de San Carlos area.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Mid-range.
   Getting there: Short drive from the bullring.
   Tip: Combine this with a visit to the Real de San Carlos bullring.
10. Name: Bodega Los Pinos
    Type: Experience
    Why go: A peaceful spot known for its commitment to local agriculture.
    Best for: Eco-conscious travelers and quiet nature.
    Where: Near Nueva Helvecia (Colonia East).
    Time: 2 hours.
    Cost: Moderate.
    Getting there: Car rental required (Eastern Colonia).
    Tip: Pair the wine with local cheeses from the nearby Swiss colonies.
11. Name: Buena Vista
    Type: Experience
    Why go: Incredible views of the Río de la Plata from the vineyard.
    Best for: Sunset lovers and landscape photography.
    Where: Carmelo shore.
    Time: 2 hours.
    Cost: Mid-range.
    Getting there: Private driver from Colonia.
    Tip: Check the weather for a clear sunset over the water.
12. Name: Puerto Camacho
    Type: Activity/Experience
    Why go: A charming port area where you can taste wines by the river.
    Best for: A lively atmosphere and casual drinks.
    Where: On the river near Narbona.
    Time: 1-2 hours.
    Cost: Varies by order.
    Getting there: Bike or car from Carmelo center.
    Tip: Try the local "matambrito" alongside your glass of wine.

Tannat and Local Food Pairings

Uruguayan wine culture is inseparable from its food. When visiting Colonia del Sacramento wineries, expect many cheese platters. The nearby towns of Nueva Helvecia and Valdense are famous for dairy. Local Sbrinz and Colonia cheeses pair perfectly with intense Tannat reds. These cheeses balance the high tannins found in the local grapes.

Asado, or traditional barbecue, is the ultimate partner for Tannat. The bold structure of the wine cuts through the richness of the meat. Many wineries offer lunch packages featuring grilled meats and seasonal vegetables. You can find excellent pairings globally, but nothing beats the local experience. Check some best restaurants in Barrio Historico for wine lists.

If you prefer lighter options, look for local olive oils. Many vineyards in Colonia have olive groves on their property. Tasting fresh oil on crusty bread is a highlight of any tour. It provides a nice break between different wine flights. Always ask for the “aceite de oliva extra virgen” produced on-site.

Getting to the Vineyards from the City

Navigation is simple once you understand the layout of the department. Getting around Colonia del Sacramento is easiest by taxi for nearby spots. For wineries in Carmelo, you will need a more robust plan. Buses run frequently between Colonia and Carmelo terminals. From the Carmelo terminal, you can take local taxis to specific vineyards.

Renting a car offers the most flexibility for a wine tour. It allows you to visit top attractions near Colonia del Sacramento at your own pace. Ensure you have a designated driver if you choose this option. Uruguay has strict zero-tolerance laws regarding drinking and driving. Officers perform regular checks on the main highways like Route 21.

Another popular option is hiring a private tour guide for the day. Guides often include pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or the ferry terminal. They provide historical context that you might miss on your own. It is a stress-free way to see multiple locations in one afternoon. Most tours depart from the city center in the late morning.