Uruguay is best known to Australians as a soccer nemesis in World Cup qualification matches, but is a surprising destination, home to a fine wine industry, and boasting in its capital Montevideo, one of the best art deco and art nouveau architectural heritages in the world.
First up, Ryan Hamilton, owner of 'The Wine Experience', took us out to a couple of small wineries about 40 km for Montevidevideo. The tastings were focused on the grape Uruguay has made its own, the intense tannat.
Montevideo's Ciduad Viejo is crammed with Arc Deco and Art Noveau buildings, and beautiful traditional cafes and bars. Sightseeing can be thirsty work.