Republic of Panama
The Republic of Panama, a Central American nation renowned for its diverse landscape, also boasts an evolving vineyard scene. Its strategic location between two oceans, the Atlantic to the north and the Pacific to the south, along with borders to Colombia on the east and Costa Rica on the west, makes it a unique region for grape cultivation and wine production. The country, though not traditionally known for its wines, has started to establish its place in the world of viticulture by focusing on the production of distinctive types of wines, both DOC and DOCG.
| Region | Republic of Panama |
|---|---|
| Country | Carribean Sea |
| Climate and soil | Panama's climate and soil play a crucial role in the viticulture. The country experiences a hot, humid, subequatorial climate with minimal seasonal variations. However, the effects of these extreme conditions are alleviated by varied elevations, resulting in specific zones known as tierras calientes, templadas, and frías. This differentiation allows for a range of grape varieties to be grown across the country. The rainfall is generous, particularly on the Caribbean side, with averages of 2500 mm, reaching up to over 3500 mm. This, coupled with the rich, fertile soil, provides ideal conditions for robust grape vines. The Pacific side receives less rainfall, falling below 2000 mm, and experiences a dry season of three months, offering a different microclimate for grape cultivation. The numerous short rivers coursing through the country are rich in water, providing the vineyards with a consistent water supply. This combination of climate and soil creates a unique environment for the production of some truly distinctive wines. |