Taking a trip to Peru’s wine country? This Winery and Pisco Distillery tour in Ica offers a comprehensive look at the region’s best producers of wine and pisco, Peru’s iconic spirit. For just about $30, you’ll spend around 5 to 6 hours immersed in the culture, history, and flavors of this fertile corner of South America. With visits to historic wineries like Hacienda Tacama, artisanal producers like El Arrabal and La Vieja Bodega Lovera, and tasting plenty of the local products, it’s a journey into the heart of Peruvian viniculture that hits all the right notes.

Two things stand out in this experience: First, the guides’ knowledge and personable approach make each stop engaging and informative. Second, the stunning architecture and authentic production methods at each winery give a real sense of tradition. The only potential consideration? The tour can be quite full on busy days, so if you value a more intimate experience, booking in advance is recommended. This tour suits travelers who love tasting unique spirits, enjoy learning about local traditions, and want a nicely balanced mix of history, scenery, and flavor.

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Visits to historic and artisanal wineries provide insight into Peru’s wine and pisco heritage.
Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Sam are praised for their expertise, making the tour lively and educational.
Flexible Scheduling: Multiple tour times accommodate different schedules, including pickup from Ica or Huacachina hotels.
Value for Money: At around $30, the tour offers generous tastings and visits to multiple wineries, making it a worthwhile cultural outing.
Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
Ideal for Enthusiasts: Perfect for those curious about pisco and wine, or anyone wanting to see Ica’s countryside through a flavorful lens.

If your idea of travel involves tasting local spirits, learning about centuries-old traditions, and soaking in beautiful vineyard scenery, this Winery and Pisco Distillery tour is a highly recommended choice. It’s a well-structured, engaging experience that combines history, culture, and wine expertise, all within a convenient half-day package.

The Locations Visited: A Taste of History and Artisanal Craftsmanship

The tour kicks off at Hacienda Tacama, often claimed to be the oldest winery in South America. This historic estate has been producing wine since the colonial era, and walking through its grounds, you can almost hear the whispers of generations past. You’ll see the beautifully maintained buildings, learn about the traditional methods still used, and sample a variety of wines, sparkling wines, and piscos in the tasting room.

A notable point: on Mondays, the visit to Tacama is replaced by Hacienda Vista Alegre, which holds a similar prestige. This flexibility ensures the tour can run smoothly even if you’re visiting during a less common day.

The next stop takes you to the El Arrabal winery, an artisanal operation that has preserved traditional pisco and wine-making techniques. Here, you’ll get a close look at a family-run operation that’s kept alive the craftsmanship passed down through generations. The tasting here includes piscos, wines, and “cachinas” — smaller spirits unique to the region. The guide’s commentary brings out the history and local flavor, making it more than just a sip-and-see.

Finally, the tour visits La Vieja Bodega Lovera, founded in 1867, still run by the Lovera family. This estate offers a glimpse into authentic Spanish-style cellars from the 16th and 17th centuries, adding historical depth to the experience. The family atmosphere and tradition shine through, giving a sense of continuity and authenticity.

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What to Expect During the Tour

The typical itinerary is roughly 2 hours at Hacienda Tacama, with additional stops totaling about 4 hours. Expect door-to-door transportation from your hotel or hostel, with pickup included—meaning no worries about navigating unfamiliar roads in a foreign country. The small group size, limited to 12 participants, helps keep the experience intimate and allows for plenty of personal interaction with the guide, who is praised for their deep knowledge of Pisco and local wineries.

Each stop features guided tours where you’ll learn about grape growing, winemaking, and pisco distillation. The emphasis isn’t just on tasting but on understanding the craftsmanship behind each product. You’ll be invited to taste a variety of piscos and wines, often in atmospheric surroundings like historic cellars or scenic vineyard patios. Several reviews mention how well-organized and responsive the guides are, making the entire process smooth and enjoyable, even for first-time visitors.

The Tastings: A Highlight of the Experience

Tastings are included at each winery, with enough variety to satisfy most wine and spirit lovers. Expect to sample Peru’s national liquor, pisco, and perhaps find a new favorite among the many options. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Sam explain the differences between types of piscos, which can elevate a simple tasting into an educational experience.

One reviewer remarked, “Sam knows a lot about Pisco and the winery’s,” and highlights that the tours are excellent. Others appreciated the authenticity and beautiful architecture of the wineries, especially the historic cellars at La Vieja Bodega Lovera.

The Lunch Break and Free Time

A good feature of this tour is the opportunity to have lunch at the winery or enjoy some free time. This allows travelers to relax, savor local cuisine, and reflect on the morning’s tastings. The included free time offers flexibility, letting you explore or simply enjoy a meal surrounded by scenic vineyard views.

Value for Money

At just over $30 per person, this tour is surprisingly affordable considering the number of wineries visited and the depth of the experience. The inclusion of transport, multiple tastings, and guided tours means you’re getting a lot of value for a modest price. Plus, the small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a good choice even for those new to wine tastings.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re a fan of wine or spirits, especially pisco. It appeals to travelers interested in history and tradition, given the historic estates and age-old cellar structures. The tour also suits those who appreciate authentic family-run wineries and want a more genuine sense of local craftsmanship. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner, the intimate group setting adds to the enjoyment.

This winery and pisco distillery tour in Ica offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and tasting pleasure. It’s a chance to learn about one of Peru’s most beloved spirits and experience the scenic beauty of the region’s vineyards. The guides’ expertise, combined with the historic settings and generous tastings, makes it a standout activity that’s both fun and educational.

If your goal is to understand Peru’s wine and pisco traditions firsthand, enjoy scenic vineyard views, and taste some of the region’s best products, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s particularly suited for those who value small-group experiences and want to walk away with more than just bottles of spirits but a deeper appreciation of their cultural significance.

In short, for a taste of authentic Peruvian wine culture at a reasonable price, this tour hits the mark—just be sure to book ahead, especially during peak times.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, including transport, visits, and tastings.

What is the price per person?
It costs about $30.77, which includes tastings, guided visits, and transport.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup from Ica or Huacachina hotels is offered, making it convenient to join without extra hassle.

Are the visits flexible on days?
Yes, the tour operates on multiple times, but note that on Mondays, Tacama is replaced by Hacienda Vista Alegre.

What can I expect at the wineries?
Guided tours of historic and artisanal wineries, with explanations on the wine and pisco-making process, followed by tastings.

Is lunch included?
Not included but there’s free time at the winery for you to enjoy a meal.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 12 travelers for a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour stands out as a well-rounded, value-packed way to explore Ica’s wine and pisco scene. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a dedicated connoisseur, you’ll find plenty to enjoy and learn. It’s a perfect way to add a flavorful chapter to your Peru adventure.