Planalto Catarinense

Overview

Planalto Catarinense lies on the high plateau of Santa Catarina state, with vineyards concentrated around São Joaquim, Urubici, and Bom Retiro at altitudes that regularly exceed 1,000 meters. The cool climate, with frequent frost risk in winter and mild summers, is closer to Champagne or Patagonia than to tropical Brazil.

The region has become a center for high-quality sparkling wine, with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir leading plantings, alongside Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewürztraminer. The picturesque mountain landscapes and well-defined seasons have made Planalto Catarinense one of Brazil's most exciting cool-climate wine frontiers.

Key Varietals

• ChardonnayA crisp, citrus-driven white that forms the backbone of the region's sparkling wines.
• Pinot NoirA delicate red used for still wine and as the classic base for rosé sparkling wines.
• MerlotA soft, fruity red that performs well on the plateau's sheltered sites.
• Sauvignon BlancA zesty, herbaceous white that thrives in the cool highland climate.