Wine: Intipalka Sauvignon Blanc

Country: Peru

Region: Ica Valley

Designation: Ica Valley

Brand/Producer: Intipalka

Grape Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc

ABV: 13.5%

Type: White

Code: 2691

Tasting Note

Very fresh Sauvignon with citrus herbal aromas leading on to a lightly textured palate of citrus apples and just ripe peaches which linger on in the tasty finish

Producer

Originally from Italy, the Queirolo family moved to Peru in 1877 and founded their winery in 1880 in

Lima. The family produced wines and piscos in the city until 1962 when they relocated to the Ica Valley, south of Lima. Today, Jorge Queirolo, winemaker and grandson of the winery founder, is responsible of producing wines and piscos that reveal the personality of one of Peru’s leading wineries. In 2011, Viñas Queirolo opened the doors of its own hotel, the first and only Peruvian hotel located on a vineyard, in the Ica Valley.

Winemaking

The original vineyards planted in 1880 are located in a small plot in Cañete, near the desert coast, and in 2000 the Queirolo family acquired some land in the Ica Valley. This impressive area is at the very foot of the Andes, 60km from the coastline and over 500m above sea level. Here, approximately 700 hectares of vineyards are planted on the hillsides with deep loamy soils and stones, a natural resource of minerals. 

Sauvignon Blanc grapes are harvest by hand with 80% from the Ica Valley and the rest from Cañete, by the sea, in a cooler, cloudier climate adding zestiness to the blend. After destemming and pressing, maceration and fermentation takes place in chilled tanks to preserve natural fruit freshness

Fun Fact

'Intipalka' means 'valley of the sun' in Quechua, the language of the ancient Inca people and still used in the highlands of Peru. Here in the Valle de Ica is an oasis for growing vines. 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.

Food pairing

An ideal aperitif for summer sipping and accompanying light appetizers and dishes. 

Awards & Accolades

88 points James Suckling