For tourists interested in Peru’s iconic beverages, the name Santiago Queirolo holds significant weight. While famous for its historic tavern, the name fundamentally represents one of Peru’s oldest and most respected bodegas. This brand has produced fine pisco and wine for over a century.
The story begins with Santiago Queirolo Raggio, an Italian immigrant. He founded the bodega in Pueblo Libre in 1880, making it one of Peru’s oldest continuously operating producers. The family’s dedication to quality winemaking and pisco distillation began right here.
Santiago Queirolo built a legacy on traditional methods. Their vineyards, originally near Lima, are now mostly in Ica and Cañete. These regions are prime for grape cultivation. Their pisco is celebrated for its purity and diverse grape varieties. Their wines range from robust reds to crisp whites.
Experiencing Santiago Queirolo’s Heritage
While the main vineyards are elsewhere, the brand’s heart remains in Pueblo Libre. The iconic Antigua Taberna Queirolo still operates here. This historic tavern, the oldest in Lima, is the perfect place to sample their celebrated products and to taste a classic Pisco Sour or a fine Queirolo wine.
The brand’s presence extends beyond the tavern. You can find Santiago Queirolo products across Peru. And many tourists seek out their distinctive bottles as they are a true taste of Peruvian tradition.
Yet, in Pueblo Libre just off Plaza Bolivar, you can visit the original distillery and learn about the production process. In the Santiago Queirolo distillery next door to Antigua Taberna Queirolo, you can see the original wooden casks, copper stills and the original delivery truck from 1880. All while learning about Peru’s national spirit – Pisco!
Exploring Santiago Queirolo offers a deeper understanding of Peruvian culture. It connects visitors to centuries of beverage production. It’s an essential experience for those passionate about food and drink. This historic brand is deeply rooted in Pueblo Libre’s identity.
Travel Tip: If you want to take a bottle of pisco home with you from Lima as a souvenir of your time in Peru, Santiago Queirolo in Pueblo Libre is the place to get it!
