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Bodegas Carrau

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Bodegas Carrau (Uruguay)

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Bodegas Carrau in Colón, Montevideo, represents one of the oldest and most storied winemaking legacies in Uruguay. Their history dates back to 1752 in Catalonia, Spain, with the Carrau family bringing their winemaking knowledge to Uruguay in 1930. The winery in Colón, built in 1887 and owned by the family, is a historic landmark and one of the oldest continuously operating wineries in the country. This historic cellar is notable for its thick stone walls and subterranean vaults, which provide convenient, stable conditions for aging premium wines. Bodegas Carrau has been a pioneer in developing the potential of the Tannat grape, producing some of the first high-quality Tannat wines in Uruguay. Their top-tier wines, particularly the 'Amat,' named in honor of their 18th-century ancestor, are meticulously aged in this historic cellar. The Colón winery is not just a production facility but also a living museum, showcasing the heritage of Uruguayan viticulture. While they also operate a large, modern facility in Las Violetas, the Colón cellar remains the spiritual heart of the family business and a symbol of their long-standing commitment to quality and tradition.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232321181512101213161921
Rain mm10210611811484989289961039686

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Bodegas Carrau is a historic winery that has been producing quality Uruguayan wines for generations. It is an important ambassador of Uruguayan wine culture and a popular destination for wine lovers.
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Visiting
The winery is typically open for visits, though cellar tours often require prior appointment. Tastings and vineyard tours are usually offered.
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Where to view it
From the winery terrace, there is a wonderful view of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills. The courtyard with its old trees also provides a scenic photo opportunity.
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Local products
The winery produces a range of wines, especially Tannat, a Uruguayan specialty. In the sales room, visitors can purchase bottles directly and often sample local cheeses.
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Active season
The peak season is the harvest from February to March, when grapes are handpicked and the winery is in full operation. Spring tasting events also draw crowds.
Nearby
A visit to Bodegas Carrau can be ideally combined with a trip to the historic city of Colonia del Sacramento. The beaches of Punta del Este are also easily reachable for a day trip.

Geography

Coordinates
-34.78910, -56.22410

Facts

  • The Carrau family's winemaking tradition began in 1752 in Catalonia.
  • Juan Carrau Sust led the family to Uruguay in 1930.
  • The Colón cellar was originally built in 1887 by a different family.
  • Their top wine, the Amat Tannat, is only produced in exceptional vintages.
  • The name 'Amat' honors Don Francisco Amat, the family's ancestor.
  • Carrau was a pioneer in exporting Uruguayan Tannat in the 1970s.

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Notable places around

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Sights in the town Bodegas Carrau (8)

Museo del Observatorio Meteorológico y Astronómico🏛 museum

Housed in a 19th-century observatory, this museum displays historic instruments for weather and star tracking.

Tanque de Agua de Eladio Dieste📍 landmark

An architectural curiosity featuring the signature curved brickwork and reinforced masonry of Eladio Dieste.

Castillo Idiarte Borda📍 landmark

A lavish Neo-Gothic summer residence from the 1890s, set within landscaped gardens in Colón.

Plaza Francisco Vidiella🌳 park

A central square in Colón featuring a monument to Francisco Vidiella, the founder of Uruguayan viticulture.

Iglesia La Respuesta es Cristo⛪ religious

A modern evangelical church providing a spiritual hub for the local community in Colón.

🕒 Su 10:00-12:00

Capilla Santa Teresita📍 landmark

A modest neighborhood chapel dedicated to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux in the residential Colón area.

Iglesia Universal⛪ religious

A branch of the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God located in the Colón district.

Iglesia Menonita⛪ religious

A simple community church serving the local Mennonite congregation in the Colón region.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit Bodegas Carrau?
Yes, they offer tours and tastings by appointment.
What makes Carrau special?
It is one of the most traditional wine families in Uruguay.
How long does a tour take?
Plan about two hours for the visit.
Can you buy wine on-site?
Yes, there is a shop to buy directly from the producer.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, the grounds are beautiful and relaxing, convenient for a trip.
Bodegas Carrau: where is it located?
Bodegas Carrau is located in Uruguay.
Bodegas Carrau: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo del Observatorio Meteorológico y Astronómico, Tanque de Agua de Eladio Dieste, Castillo Idiarte Borda.
Bodegas Carrau: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Bodegas Carrau: why is it worth visiting?
Bodegas Carrau in Colón, Montevideo, represents one of the oldest and most storied winemaking legacies in Uruguay.
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