LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
subregions
Undoubtedly, the Planalto Catarinense is one of the most interesting regions of Brazil, despite being relatively new (it began to develop in the 1990s). This region has high altitude crops, ranging from 900 to 1400 meters, a distinctive feature that allows the production of fresh and unique wines.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
This wine region is located in the extreme south of Brazil and is one of the highest in the country: its vineyards are located between 900 and 1400 meters above sea level. The high altitude allows the vines to have a slower ripening cycle, which added to the great exposure to the sun allows the grapes to develop more intense aromas and flavors, which are reflected in the quality of the white wines (the most produced in this region) but also in the red wines, which in recent years are gaining greater preponderance.
The Planalto Catarinense wine region experiences a subtropical climate. It is characterized by mild summers with average temperatures around 20-25°C and cold winters with temperatures often dropping below freezing, accompanied by occasional snowfall. The region receives moderate to high rainfall throughout the year, providing lush vegetation and supporting agriculture and tourism activities.
Besides the altitude of the vineyards, the other key factor to understand the wines of the Planalto Catarinense is the basaltic soil. This type of soil has a volcanic origin, and although it has good water retention and fertility, one of the aspects that most influences the wine is that it gives it a mineral profile.
Because Brazil is still a relatively new wine-producing region, it currently has no specific national or regional programs to promote wine sustainability. However, the Planalto Catarinense region is able to obtain organic certification for its wines, thanks to Decree 6323. This decree, intended for all agricultural activities in Brazil, aims to have a strong impact on the country's winemaking.
The most interesting aspects of this decree, which can give added value to Brazilian viticulture by taking it down the path of sustainability, have some very interesting points that deserve to be highlighted:
Most Planted Red Grape Varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir
Most Planted White Grape Varieties: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
The Planalto Catarinense region boasts a burgeoning wine industry with a diverse range of red and white wines to offer.
Among the most common red wines in Planalto Catarinense, the star grape variety is undoubtedly Merlot. Known for its versatility and adaptability to the region's terroir, Merlot wines from Planalto Catarinense exhibit rich flavors of blackberry, plum, and cherry, often complemented by subtle herbal notes. The region's cooler climate allows for longer ripening periods, resulting in well-balanced, medium-bodied reds with soft tannins and a lingering finish.
Another prominent red grape in the area is Cabernet Sauvignon. Though more challenging to grow due to its late ripening nature, Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in the region's elevated vineyards. The resulting wines showcase bold black fruit flavors, firm tannins, and a hint of herbaceousness, reflecting the unique terroir of Planalto Catarinense.
As for white wines, Chardonnay is a standout in the region. This versatile grape adapts well to the climate, producing expressive wines with notes of tropical fruits, citrus, and a refreshing acidity. In some instances, Chardonnay wines may undergo oak aging, adding subtle vanilla and toasty nuances to the palate.
Sauvignon Blanc is another popular white grape in Planalto Catarinense. The cooler temperatures contribute to the preservation of the grape's vibrant acidity and aromatic profile. Expect lively wines with zesty citrus, green apple, and grassy notes, making them ideal companions for the region's fresh seafood and salads.
In summary, the Planalto Catarinense region is a haven for wine enthusiasts, offering a delightful array of red and white wines. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon represent the reds with their rich fruit and structure, while Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc showcase the region's capacity for crafting refreshing and flavorful whites. Whether seeking a smooth red to savor with hearty dishes or a crisp white to savor on a warm day, Planalto Catarinense has a wine to suit every palate.
Although the cultivation of grapes in the Santa Catarina area began in the 1970s, the true development of high altitude crops in the Planalto Catarinense region did not come until the 1990s.
In 1991, a series of experiments began to be developed in Brazil that promoted the Planalto Catarinense as one of the most interesting regions in Brazil to produce high-altitude wines between 900 and 1,400 meters, thanks in large part to its weather conditions. and soil.
These experiments, financed by the Agricultural Research and Rural Extension Company of Santa Catarina, allowed the Planalto Catarinense to solidify itself as one of the main wine regions in Santa Catarina, thus achieving an increase in the number of vineyards in the region during the 2000s.
Copyright © 2024 Vinerra Corp.
