Peru — wine

Ica Valley Wine Region

South America's oldest wine-producing country and its leading wine region in the Ica desert valley south of Lima, where the Humboldt Current's cooling Pacific influence moderates extreme desert heat. Pisco — the grape brandy distilled from Quebranta and aromatic varieties — is Peru's defining contribution to the spirits world. Dry table wine production from Tannat, Malbec, and Sauvignon Blanc is emerging as Peruvian sommeliers seek to match pisco's global recognition.

Year Rating Notes
2023 Good Ica vintage; Humboldt influence preserved freshness in Sauvignon Blanc
2022 Outstanding year; Tacama Gran Tinto achieved notable complexity
2021 Good desert conditions; balanced ripeness across reds and whites
2020 Consistent growing season; structured Tannat-Malbec with good depth
2019 Benchmark Ica vintage; Lima's gastronomy scene elevated the region's profile
2018 Warm Ica year moderated by Humboldt; concentrated, structured reds
2017 El Niño disruption managed by irrigation; top estates maintained quality