Uruguay's Colonia Department showcases tourism in Gramado, Brazil

The Department of Colonia in Uruguay staged a three‑day promotional event, “Festim Nostra Oliva Colonia – Uruguay,” at Parque Olivas in Gramado, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Organized by Olivas de Gramado with the backing of Colonia’s Intendencia and local sponsors, the program highlighted the department’s wines, cheeses, sweets and culinary heritage. Chef Cristiano Alves crafted a five‑course menu pairing Uruguayan products with Brazilian dishes, while sommeliers Soledad González Battó and Johana Vázquez advised on wine pairings. Cultural performances included the Portuguese fado group Alma Lusitana and a tango trio, underscoring Colonia’s historical ties to the region. The event attracted Uruguayan consular officials, Rio Grande do Sul’s cultural, agricultural and tourism authorities, and local tourism leaders, aiming to strengthen cross‑border ties and position Colonia as a distinct gastronomic and cultural destination in the Serra Gaúcha area.