The Andean country will not disappoint you if you are a wine lover. You may have heard of the famous Pisco Sour. However, Peru also has a growing wine industry.
Peruvian wine may not be well known, but it has grown for centuries. It is one of the country’s proud traditions. Fortunately, in Peru, you can discover an extensive, reasonable, and varied selection of very good wines. That is why together with the travel experts of Machu Travel Peru we have prepared a small article about the best characteristics of the wine in this place.
The best characteristics of wine in Peru
- Peruvian wine has a sweet taste
- Ica is the place you should go
- Peru was the first vineyard in South America
- Presence on the world scene
- There are some incredible options
- Good wines can cost a little more
- Try other traditional drinks
- Make wine a part of your experience
Peruvian wine has a sweet taste
One of the first things to know about the wine in Peru is that it may differ from what you usually drink. However, this doesn’t mean you won’t find a wine that suits your tastes. On the contrary, Peru offers a rich and diverse wine culture that could very well surprise you.
Peruvian wines are often characterized by their distinctive sweetness, which can differ quite from the dry or more acidic wines you might be used to. This sweetness stems from the unique climate conditions and soil compositions in the country’s wine-producing regions, such as the Ica Valley and Arequipa. These regions provide the ideal environment for growing grapes that thrive in the Andean highlands.
If you are used to the dry wines from Europe or the New World, the wines of Peru might surprise you. Their sweetness can be a nice change or take some getting used to. The best thing to do is try Peruvian drinks with an open mind. The flavors are unique and unlike anything else in the world.
Ica is the place you should go
To experience the best of wine in Peru, Ica is the destination you cannot miss. Ica is known as the wine capital of Peru. It has some of the best vineyards in the country. Here, you can taste fine wines that show the region’s true spirit.
In Ica, you will find excellent conditions for winemaking. Here, old traditions mix with new ideas to create high-quality wines. The city is also a wonderful destination for various tours in Peru. Its large dunes are excellent for enjoying buggy riding and other outdoor activities.
This place is a unique wine region in the desert, but what makes Ica wine so unique? The answer is the environment and location. Ica is in the middle of Peru’s desert, which may seem surprising. Arid landscapes, with hot, sunny days and cool nights, provide the perfect conditions for grapes to grow.
The dry climate and closeness to the Andes Mountains create a unique terroir. This terroir improves the flavor and character of the wines made here. Vineyards like Tacama and Bodega Vista Alegre are famous. They produce rich, full-bodied wines. These wines often taste sweet, which is a sign of Peruvian winemaking.
Peru was the first vineyard in South America
Although Peru is not one of the largest drink producers, it was the first country in South America to establish a vineyard. This is one of the most surprising facts about Peru since the Spaniards could not live without their grapes and wine production.
Over time, vineyards began to abound throughout South America, but it was in Peru where it all began. This demonstrates that Peru has always participated in wine production. Recently, its large collection started to gain attention.
Today, people recognize Peruvian wines for their unique quality and flavor. They are gaining recognition in international markets. This is helping Peru become an emerging producer in the wine industry. The history of Peruvian vineyards shows the hard work and love for winemaking that has lasted for centuries.
Presence on the world scene
Just as tourism in Peru has been seeing great growth, the wine in Peru has gained some notoriety on the world stage. With the upswing in the production and quality of wine, it is not surprising that it is gaining ground on the world scene. Every year, the export of wines to other countries grows a lot. This shows the improvement in the quality and production.
There are some incredible options
You might not find a Peruvian wine easily in your local store. Other countries often export more wine than Peru. But Peru has a lot to offer; among our favorites are lines such as Intipalka, Tabernero, and Tacama.
If you are looking for what to drink in Peru, wines such as Intipalka Malbec, Intipalka Sauvignon Blanc, and Tacama Selección Especial Tinto will give your palate something to talk about. As tasty as wines are, they can cost a little more. Whether you’re In a restaurant or a supermarket, if you’re looking for a decent bottle of wine, expect to pay a bit more.
Good wines can cost a little more
The wines in Peru are tasty and high quality. However, they can be more expensive than locals usually pay for drinks. Whether at a supermarket or a restaurant, you’ll likely have to pay a bit more if you’re looking for a decent bottle.
For example, a bottle of Tabali Gran Reserva costs more than some local wines. The same goes for Quebrada de los Padres. Remember that a good bottle of wine can make up a big part of the bill at restaurants. If you order a Tacama Gran Reserva or a Pueblo del Sol, your meal’s cost may significantly increase.
To avoid surprises, I suggest having a rough range in mind of what you typically spend on wine. You can mentally convert the currency or use your phone to calculate the price and ensure it fits your budget. This way, you can enjoy the experience without worrying about unexpected costs.
Try other traditional drinks
If wine tasting is on your bucket list, you can’t miss the iconic Pisco Sour. The wine in Peru and Pisco Sour have different flavors. However, they are made from grapes grown in rich valleys in the country.
The options for wine in Peru are Tabali Gran Reserva and Quebrada de los Padres, which offer a rich, full flavor. They often have unique flavors of fruits, herbs, and spices. This is due to the country’s unique terrain.
The Pisco Sour is a drink made from Pisco, a brandy from local grapes. It also includes lime juice, egg whites, simple syrup, and bitters. This cocktail is tangy, refreshing, and smooth. It’s a great alternative to wine. The lime’s acidity and the Pisco’s richness make a balanced cocktail. It is both refreshing and captivating. However, people can enjoy other traditional Peruvian drinks besides Pisco and wine. Drinks like Chilcano or Piranha Bite will also be unique experiences for your palate.
Make wine a part of your experience
Not only the wine in Peru is a delight for the palate, but it also offers you a complete sensory experience. From its rich red wines to the fresh, fragrant whites, each type shows the beautiful landscape of the Peruvian valleys. These valleys stretch from sunny coasts to the high Andes. Peruvian wine is becoming more popular around the world. Choosing it is a great way to share a bit of Peru with others.
Try Peruvian food if you are wondering what to pair with this tasty wine. People know it for its variety and intense flavors, making it a perfect match. A good ceviche, a causa limeña, or succulent lomo saltado will enhance the experience. Don’t wait: the wine in Peru is more than just a drink. It invites you to enjoy the best of Peru in every sip. Enjoy it, and continue exploring new flavors!
“Man makes beer, and God makes wine”
We hope together with the travel experts of Machu Travel Peru to have been able to satisfy your curiosity. A trip to Peru without tasting its delicious wines and drinks is an incomplete trip. For a private experience in the Ica vineyards, start planning with our expert advisors today. Don’t miss out on the magical selection of wines in Peru!
Peru has so much to offer, it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it. Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one!
