Peruvian wine makes its debut in Thailand and Southeast Asia
By Kathleen Pokrud
Peruvian wine has arrived in Thailand and Southeast Asia through the collaborative efforts of HE Ms Cecilia Galarreta, ambassador of the Republic of Peru to Thailand, the Thai company Noble Marketing and the Peruvian Economic and Trade Office for ASEAN. This success was celebrated during the tasting event, "Andean Elegance: A Pisco and Wine Affair", which marked the introduction of Peruvian wine to the region, including two new Pisco brands: Intipalka Valle Del Sol Pisco and Santiago Queirolo Pisco Quebranta.
To begin the event, the Peruvian Ambassador said, “I am a firm believer in the beneficial results of collaborative efforts between Peruvian public and private institutions and the Thai private sector. The Embassy of Peru is working hand in hand with the Peruvian Economic and Trade Office for ASEAN, along with private enterprises, to deepen economic ties between our two nations, also highlighting our shared commitment to fostering cooperation and cultural exchanges.”
Noble Marketing, under the leadership of Mr Sithisak Chatamornwong, is the pioneering Thai company that imports eight varieties of Peruvian wines from the Viñas Queirolo enterprise to Thailand. The company has also played a significant role in expanding the presence of Pisco in Thailand. Now you can find Pisco in different local sales outlets, like “Gourmet Market”.
The event also featured the participation of Erick Figueroa, a Peruvian wine connoisseur and Export Manager of Viñas Queirolo, who shared insights into Peru's capacity for wine production.
At the tasting event, in addition to the two new Pisco brands, eight varieties of Intipalka wine were presented, including the N° 1 Gran Reserva, Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Verdot, Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah, Malbec, Tannat, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. These wines showcased the diversity and quality of Peruvian winemaking.
What made this event even more special was the opportunity for participants to experience firsthand how these wines complement Thai cuisine. For instance, the Tannat paired beautifully with the classic, spicy minced pork balls, highlighting the versatility of Peruvian wines. The attendees also savoured amazing Peruvian food. The event was well attended with many representatives of the local and international wine and hospitality industries.
Peru is renowned for its rich culture, history, breathtaking landscapes and exquisite cuisine. However, most people are unaware that the southern region of Peru has been producing wine since 1540, making it the oldest wine-producing country in South America. Vineyards play an important role in the economy of Peruvian southern cities like Ica and Pisco, contributing to financial growth in the area. These regions are home to several of the country's most important wineries, responsible for the production of grapes, a national superfood. This positions Peru as the third-largest exporter of grapes worldwide. Notably, Ica hosts the "Festival Internacional de la Vendimia" every March since 1958, celebrating the grape harvest.
