Brazil has an emerging but still developing wine industry that is looking to showcase itself during the 2014 World Cup. While influenced historically by Portugal and Northern Italy, Brazilian winemaking most resembles French styles, using traditional French grape varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay. Sparkling wines in particular have thrived in Brazil despite the local preference for beers and spirits. The large Champagne house Moët & Chandon invested heavily in Brazil starting in the 1970s, helping revitalize the industry. Brazil's vineyards are closer to the equator than any other, resulting in an intense heat that allows grapes to fully ripen twice per year, making the wines comparatively sweet, fruity, and consistent in quality with little