'Intipalka' means 'valley of the sun' in Quechua, the language of the ancient Inca people. Here in the Valle de Ica is an oasis, where the Queirolo family have been growing vines since 1880. The unique desert climate, with warm sunny days and cool nights, produces grapes with delicate aromas and bright acidity, and a saline character imparted by the Pacific ocean just 60km away.
"A delicate and uplifting Sauvignon Blanc, with light, aromatic notes of citrus fruit and fresh-cut grass."
Vines have been grown in Peru since 1880 though until now you were more likely to use the grapes for Pisco, a kind of Brandy, than for table wines. Peru is an incredibly interesting place for vines. The country lies outside the famous 28-50 degree latitude zone where wine is made. Peru relies on altitude for its vineyards. It would be too warm otherwise. These vineyards, rising high in the Andes soak up the sun without the kind of heat that could ruin the crop. Delicate grapes that are perfectly ripe make up the wine.Â