International Grape Harvest Festival of Ica

The grape is a sacred fruit. It can be a symbol of power, as for the Roman high command, as well as of divinity, specifically in ancient Greece. In Peru it is one of the symbols of prosperity, and since 1958 it is celebrated in March through the International Grape Harvest Festival, in the department of Ica. Hundreds of visitors come to this destination to participate in the process of extracting the essence of the grape, through techniques inherited from the colony, such as the treading of this edible.

Precisely, in Ica are several of the most important wine farms in the country, responsible for the production and manufacture of this national superfood, which positions us as the third largest exporter worldwide. The International Grape Harvest Festival of Ica is the ideal opportunity to learn more about the Peruvian culture around this fruit, ambassador of the Ica identity.

During the festival, the grape bunches are detached from the vines, then the juice is extracted, which is used to prepare the department’s most important and exquisite liqueurs. Here we share three of these concoctions, made in Peru from grapes.

Pisco

Pisco is Peru’s spirit drink, and its preparation is divided into three groups: Puro, Acholado and Mosto Verde. Each one has its own characteristics, and can be used in different cocktails, such as Pisco Sour, Chilcano, Capitan, Pisco Punch, among others.

Cachina

In wineries, ranches and farms in the Ica region, this drink is still prepared in an artisanal way, as part of the cultural heritage. The grapes are separated from the bunch to avoid the bitter taste, and then all the must is extracted from the fruit.

Vino

Ica produces some of the most renowned wines in Peru. During the festival, you will be able to see how this fruit used to be processed, under the bare feet of the people who dance while crushing the grapes.

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