Pisco Guide: How and where to taste Peru’s authentic spirit

If there’s one drink that represents Peru around the world, it’s pisco. This grape-based spirit, with a protected Designation of Origin, is more than just liquor: it’s history, tradition, and national pride. Whether in a refreshing pisco sour or a chilcano, discovering it is a must for every traveler.

What is Pisco?

Pisco is a brandy made from the fermentation and distillation of pisco grapes. There are eight recognized grape varieties, which allow for different styles, from intense and aromatic to smooth and elegant. Its versatility makes it perfect for cocktails, but it can also be enjoyed neat, in a glass.

Pisco Guide: How and where to taste Peru’s authentic spirit

How to taste it

The most popular way is through the pisco sour, Peru’s flagship cocktail. Made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and a few drops of Angostura bitters, it strikes the perfect balance between freshness and strength. Another favorite is the chilcano, lighter and more refreshing, made with pisco, ginger ale, and lime.

But if you want to go deeper, try a guided tasting. There you’ll discover the different aromas and nuances of each variety, learning to distinguish quebranta, italia, torontel, or acholado piscos.

Where to taste authentic Pisco

• Lima: The capital is home to iconic bars like the historic Bar Maury or the elegant Gran Hotel Bolívar, both considered the birthplace of the pisco sour. In Barranco, contemporary cocktail bars take it to the next level.

• Ica and the Pisco Valley: The birthplace of pisco. Here you can visit traditional wineries such as Tacama, Hacienda La Caravedo, or Viñas Queirolo. Touring the Pisco Valley also lets you see the vineyards up close and learn about the artisanal distillation process.

• Cusco: In the former Inca capital, the Museo del Pisco stands out, with branches in both Cusco and Lima, offering innovative cocktails and guided tastings. You’ll also find great bars in San Blas and the historic center, perfect for relaxing after exploring ruins and colonial streets.

• Arequipa: The “White City” offers a unique pisco route in the Majes Valley and wineries like Bodega del Fundador or Ponce de León. In the historic center, colonial-style terrace bars are perfect for pairing pisco with Arequipa’s bold cuisine.

A living tradition

Pisco is not just a spirit; it’s part of Peru’s identity. Exploring its history and flavors is a unique way to connect with the country and its people. So, on your next trip to Peru, make sure to raise a glass of pisco and toast with a hearty ¡Salud!

👉 If you want to live the authentic pisco experience, with Book and Vámonos you can add a pisco route to your trip and discover wineries, tastings, and unique cocktails.