South America is home to several wine producing regions. Although classed as a "new world" region, it has a surprising depth to its wine producing history. Wine making was first introduced in Chile hundreds of years ago and has since spread across the continent. When planning a trip here, do ensure that your travel insurance will be valid as many policies offer restricted geographical coverage.

Chile remains one of the best known wine producing areas in South America. The climate of Chile makes it perfect for growing healthy grapes. Vineyards are planted in fertile valleys that can accommodate many different types of grape. These varietals include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay. Wine from Chile has been compared to that from the top wine producing region of California in the USA. However, bottles from Chile are typically far cheaper than those from California. The price of Chilean wine is just one of its many appealing features.

Chile is a country that is certainly worth a visit on the basis of its wine alone. The country boasts widespread production and offers ample opportunities to taste wine made in traditional ways. The country is also ideal for general tourism with Buenos Aires being one of the most exciting cities in the world, offering excellent shopping, restaurants and night life. Although South America has become an increasingly safe holiday destination in recent years, it is always important to ensure you have appropriate travel insurance.

Argentina is also becoming well known across the globe for its production of high quality wines. Wine production has been practised in Argentina for around 200 years but has only really begun to have a real international impact of late. The quality of its wines is improving year after year, with many connoisseurs believing that Argentinian wines are set to become hugely influential. Vineyards in Argentina are planted at very high altitude, some as high as 3000 feet. Grapes grown in Argentina include Merlot, Chardonnay, Tempranillo and Torrontés. This shows how adaptable Argentinian wine production can be. Both traditional and relatively new grapes are thus successfully grown in the country.

Argentina is also a superb destination for wine tourism. The locals in Argentina are extremely friendly and are happy for you to come and look around their vineyards and sample the wine. Many travellers combine a trip to both Chile and Argentina and try different wines from the two countries. South America is a seasoned travellers dream, it is a diverse exciting country full of chances for adventure. It is important to ensure you are prepared, however, for a long trip away. Backpackers should ensure that they have enough local currency to last them whilst they are in rural areas and of course travel insurance is essential.

Although by no means as well known as Chile or Argentina, Uruguay does produce some good quality wine, to the surprise of many. Unlike its South American counterparts, Uruguay is extremely flat. Yet its climate and soil has become famous for producing high quality wine from the Tannat grape. This grape was originally grown in France yet was found to be a perfect match for the climate and conditions in Uruguay. Wines from this grape have since become the country's signature offerings. Due to the climate these wines are softer than their French counterparts. They are also fruitier and far more appealing in their youth.

The quality of wine is also high in Uruguay as a result of the traditional approach to wine production here. Many of the vineyards are small, family owned businesses. Owners take a great deal of care in harvesting by hand and favour low yields. The country's authentic approach to wine making is refreshing; the country itself is brimming with arts, music and a rich culture that makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking out something a little different. Again, make sure you prepare thoroughly for your trip and that you have travel insurance to ensure that you and other members of your party are protected.

South America is thus an exciting destination both for general travel and for sampling the terrific wines that the region has been producing of late. Although Chile and Argentina are the better known producers in the continent, Uruguay also has a great deal to offer. When planning a trip to South America make sure that you include some local vineyards in your itineraries, book your travel insurance in advance and enjoy the many delights to be found here.