Wine In Peru Struggles For Recognition, But Bright Future In Sight

Wine In Peru Struggles For Recognition, But Bright Future In Sight

Panoramic view of the city of Macchu Pichu in Peru Given that Peru is considered to be one of the top culinary capitals in the world, it is not surprising to learn that they also produce wine. However, most people are not aware of the small wine region in Southern Peru that has been producing wine since 1540, and is actually the oldest wine-producing country in South America. Today, the Peruvian wine industry still struggles for both national and global recognition, but there are forces in play that suggest the future may become brighter. Located 4 hours south of Lima, the Ica Valley is considered to be the heart of Peruvian wine country, and boasts around 85 producers. On the edges of the Atacama Desert, the region is quite dry and hot, but the cooling winds from nearby Pacific Ocean and an altitude of around 500 meters (1500 feet), result in up to 20 degree temperature shifts at night. This, along, with limestone, clay, and sandy soils, allow this region to produce high quality wine grapes with ripe flavors and fresh acidity. The most popular red grapes are Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon , Tannat, Syrah, and Grenache. Commonly grown white grapes