As we already mentioned, Peru has everything, lots of places, gentle people, rich history, culture and archaeology and so much. Now we have to talk about an issue well known and used in Peru
Let’s talk about the Pisco
Pisco is technically an unaged brandy obtained from the distillation of recently fermented Peruvian grape musts and juices. Some say it’s like Grappa because both are made from grapes. Others relate it to Tequila because of its similar herbal and almost earthy flavors
This incredible drink is the national drink of Peru and the pride of all the inhabitants of the Andean country. Pisco is part of the national spirit of Peru. The drink is made in such a way that the fermenting wine distillation comes from the fresh must of about eight varieties of grapes. All in order to produce a kind of transparent and clear brandy. Besides, Peruvian pisco stands out for its traditional and artisanal preparation methods.
Which pisco is the best for a Pisco Sour?
It should be clear that there are several types of pisco. The choice will depend on the use we will give it, either to drink it pure as an aperitif, to make a cocktail or even as an ingredient for desserts. Each of its variants has characteristics that make them unique
Many expert bartenders agree that the pisco Quebranta is the best to prepare our flagship cocktail, because it is versatile, docile and well balanced, which favors when mixed with lime juice and gum syrup.
Pisco sour description
The “sour” category in cocktails refers to sweet and sour. This formula, complemented with pisco, egg white and angostura bitters, results in a cocktail that inspires us and fills us with pride
The qualities of the ingredients, which make the pisco sour unique in the world due to its differentiated elements (egg white and angostura bitters), make it genuine and set it apart from, for example, the bourbon sour.
This tradition has been well carried on by bartenders such as Roberto Meléndez (Capitan Melendez), who this February 7 celebrates 30 years behind the bar, preparing countless pisco sours and transmitting the original flavor of the flagship cocktail to new generations.
Who invented the Pisco Sour?
Although the preparation of pisco-based mixed beverages possibly dates back to the 1700s, historians and drink experts agree that the cocktail as it is known today was invented in the early 1920s in Lima, the capital of Peru, by the American bartender Victor Vaughen Morris
It is important to know that in 1572, Santa Maria Magdalena, a town in Peru, had a port by the name Pisco. Pisco became a crucial route for distribution of an alcoholic beverage — aguardiente. Port of Pisco shortened the name to just Pisco, which was the name of the grape liqueur that was originated in the area
Peruvian Wine
Peruvian wine dates back to the Spanish colonization of the region in the 16th century. Peru shares a similar climate with wine-producing country Chile, which is favorable for producing wine
Let’s know that when most people think of wine regions, places like Napa Valley in California or Bordeaux in France immediately come to mind. Peruvian wine may not yet have the international recognition these destinations do, but that’s part of what makes it so special. Tucked away in the south of the country, the vineyards of Peru offer a unique experience that is still relatively undiscovered by mainstream tourism. This means that you can explore these vineyards without the crowds that often accompany more famous wine regions.
Who invented the Peruvian Wine
As said, Peru’s winemaking roots trace to the 16th century, initiated by Spanish Conquistadores planting grapevines for the church and locals. Peru’s wine-making history dates back to the time of the Spanish Conquistadors in the 16th century
It was up in the heights of Cusco, the very epicenter of the Incan empire best known for Machu Picchu, where they planted their first vines in the 1540s. But the high-altitude hills soon turned out to be too laborious a location for the sea-dwelling Spaniards, and the vines were moved further downhill towards the coast in the region of Ica – which is today the wine capital of the country. To this day, Ica is the top spot for wine production in Peru and is also home to the national brandy, Pisco
When should we drink Pisco Sour or a Peruvian Wine?
Everything will depend on the occasion and the moment to celebrate. The Pisco Sour is usually drunk in celebrations or toast for a special occasion. Even families start their celebrations with a Pisco Sour
In the case of Peruvian wine, it is used more during meals to accompany certain dishes that merit its consumption and the wine to be drunk
What are the main vineyards in Peru?
It is very important to mention that Peru has several vineyards very well known in different countries. Let’s know some of the most important:
- Bodega Ocucaje
- Tacama
- Vista Alegre
- El Catador
- Viñas Queirolo
- And do on
Let us take you on a tour of the best vineyards in Peru.
