Pisco is a type of brandy, a distilled spirit made from fermented grape juice, that originates from South America.  It is most closely associated with Peru and Chile, both of which claim it as their national spirit. However, the two countries produce pisco using slightly different methods, and the regulations surrounding its production also vary.  Peru has more strict regulations on pisco’s production, with requirements regarding the distillation process and grape varieties. Chilean pisco production is more industrialized and allows for a broader range of practices.

The name “Pisco” comes from the Peruvian port town of Pisco, a hub for shipping and exporting the spirit.  The name is also believed to come from a Quechua word for a type of bird, symbolizing the area’s indigenous culture.  The history of pisco dates back to the 16th century when Spanish settlers brought viticulture to South America. They began producing wine and, eventually, distilling the wine to create a spirit.  Pisco emerged as a distilled product of grapes in the Viceroyalty of Peru, which covered parts of modern-day Peru and Chile.

Pisco is made from specific grape varieties, with Peru officially allowing eight types, divided into aromatic varieties like Muscat and Torontel, and non-aromatic varieties like Quebranta and Mollar.  After the grapes are harvested and pressed, their juice, or “must”, undergoes fermentation, during which sugars are converted into alcohol.  Unlike other brandies, pisco is distilled only once, without the addition of water, additives, or barrel aging in the Peruvian process, resulting in a pure and potent spirit.  In Peru, pisco must rest for at least three months in vessels such as glass or stainless steel that do not alter its flavor, whereas in Chile, aging in wooden barrels is permitted, adding potential complexity to the spirit.  In Peru, there is a National Pisco Day (usually celebrated in July), and the Pisco Sour is celebrated as a national cocktail.

Base:                                    Grape (juice)

Flavor is most like:       Grape, with citrus, herbs and floral aromas

Sweetness (1 to 5):       2

Description:                  Pisco is a versatile spirit often used in cocktails.  In Peru, pisco is often enjoyed neat to appreciate its complexity and unique flavor, though it’s equally popular in cocktails.

ABV:                                    30-50%