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If you’re looking for genuinely memorable Punta del Este things to do, Damajuana Wine Store needs to be at the top of your list. Located on the main commercial street of Barrio Pastora—a traditional, lived-in neighbourhood right in central Punta—this intimate wine bar is worlds away from the town’s stereotypical slick, glossy, sometimes superficial reputation.
Here, surrounded by owner-run local businesses and a stream of local off-duty chefs and hospitality workers, you’ll find Juan Pablo, a Chilean sommelier who fell in love with Uruguay’s small, high-quality wine producers. In a town where wines are usually expensive, offered mainly by the bottle and often not even Uruguayan, he created the bar he wished existed: a warm, unpretentious place to taste, learn and socialise.
With its laid-back garage vibe, cool stories from Juan’s years exploring Uruguay’s winemakers, and a steady flow of locals who know a good glass when they find one, Damajuana is the perfect discovery for anyone seeking good wines and connection.
One of the most meaningful Punta del Este things to do is to taste wines from local boutique producers—and Damajuana is one of the few places where you can. Thanks to a Coravin, Juan pours at least a dozen wines by the glass, including premium bottles rarely available without committing to the whole thing. And wine-tastings every day.
Juan takes food seriously. Expect artisan cheeses and excellent charcuterie from Del Campo, one of Uruguay’s finest producers.
Juan’s cocktails, especially his Negroni, are rapidly becoming legendary. He uses exceptional Uruguayan gin Libertad and high-quality local vermouth.
Damajuana is set at the front of a rough-around-the-edges hostel and is open to the elements under a roof. Seating is on high stools without backs. It’s all very casual—come ready to unwind, taste and chat. If it’s a cool evening, bring something warm.
Juan speaks great English and loves sharing insights into the South American wine scene. Expect conversation, not ceremony.
Need a lift? Juan can connect you with an Uber-driving friend. When we visited, getting to La Barra cost about USD 15; within Punta del Este, much less.
Open Thursday to Tuesday, from 4 pm to around 1–1:30 am—essentially until the last patron leaves.
Damajuana Wine Bar
Barrio Pastora, Punta del Este
(On the neighbourhood’s main commercial street)
Opening hours: Thursday–Tuesday, 4 pm–late
Contact Juan directly to book a four-wine tasting or reserve through Airbnb experiences
+598 98 250 033
damajuanawinecontent@gmail.com
One Response
At Karen’s recommendation, my wife and I spent an evening with Juan Pablo, and it was a fantastic experience. He is warm, engaging, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about wine. Juan Pablo guided us through a tasting journey across Uruguay, introducing wines from different regions and sharing insights that brought each one to life.
Before this experience, we knew very little about Uruguayan wine, as it’s not widely available in the United States. Juan Pablo introduced us to a wonderful mix of well-known and rare selections, all of which were excellent. Beyond the wine itself, he generously shared stories about his life, background, and what led him into the world of wine.
By the end of the evening, we had not only gained a deeper appreciation for Uruguayan wine and brought home a few bottles, but we had also made a new friend.