Ica, Peru

Few realize the quality of wines produced in Peru most likely because the grape growing region is quite small. Ica, south of Lima, is the epicenter of the Peruvian wine and Pisco industy. There are just a few major labels such as Ocucaje and Tacama. The region benefits from the cool air of the Humboldt Current much like Napa Valley. The region has just a fraction of production compared with say Chile or Argentina, but the quality of the wines is comparable.

The Tacama winery is one of the most visitor friendly in the area. I visited the winery not long ago and was quite impressed at the sophistication of the site. It is set on a beautiful hacienda, surrounded by many acres of lush vineyards, where the wine and Pisco (a fermented white grape brandy) is made, bottled, and shipped. You get a chance to see the equipment that is of the latest European technology and the many vats filled with their many labels. A dozen or so varieties of wine are bottled here, as are several of the world’s best Piscos and a few sparkling wines.

I have come to appreciate the Gran Tinto the most. The combination of Malbec, Tannat and Petit Verdot grapes give this ruby red wine an overall light and fruity composure. A Gran Tinto Seleccion Especial is significantly more complex.

A tour of an hour or so, availiable on most days, takes you inside the factory, around the grounds, and is complete with a tasting and opportunity to purchase at the end. No reservations are needed.

See Tacama’s website for more information.

Nicholas Gill (470 Posts)

Writer and photographer Nicholas Gill is the editor/publisher of New World Review. He lives in Lima, Peru and Brooklyn, New York. His work has appeared in publications such as the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, CondeNast Traveler, National Geographic Traveler, Afar, and Penthouse. Visit his personal website (nicholas-gill.com) for more information.