only in the second half of the 20th century did brazil begin producing wines which would be exported, which would become over 1,100 wineries in the country with sparkling wines being the best known variety, resembling italian spumante and prosecco - the state of rio is not one of the main producing cities, but it imports from the fertile southern regions, such as gaucha and campanha, as well as some northern regions, such as vale do são francisco in bahia.

although beer and cocktails are the drinks most commonly associated with brazil, wine is a burgeoning beverage, particularly amongst the middle classes - there is a significant sect of cariocas who have developed a penchant and pallet for quality grapes.

wine bars abound across the city, made from an assortment of domestic and international vines - l'orangerie in laranjeiras is a popular and sophisticated establishment, which has a happy hour and offers courses and tastings, while la botella in ipanema is an intimate bistrô, with gourmet culinary offerings and a stylish décor.