Ancient Pisco Is Enjoying a Modern-day Renaissance

The idea of sipping on an aged brandy typically stirs up images of a gentleman sitting by the fire after dinner, perhaps even smoking a pipe while wearing a tweed suit. But pisco (pronounced PEES-koh), a deeply historical and versatile South American brandy, is shaking things up in American cocktail bars — quickly earning a reputation as a hip ingredient in modern and traditional concoctions alike.

Its super-smooth, aromatic flavor gently balances its high alcohol content, making it suitable for sipping neat or as a base in mixing. But the bragging rights for pisco's origin aren't as clear as this brandy's almost transparent color. Turns out Peru and Chile both have a centuries-long, and highly disputed, history with pisco. First produced in the 16th century, it's made by fermenting wine from the super-sweet grapes grown on the coast of what are now Peru and Chile. But those borders weren't yet drawn when pisco was first created, so both countries claim pisco as their own invention — and their national drink.

One thing they all agree on is their love for the pisco sour — a unique cocktail that packs in a little protein with its combination of simple syrup, lime juice, bitters, pisco, and frothed egg whites. Of course, they both stake their claim to its recipe, but Peru went the extra mile and named the first Saturday in February as International Pisco Sour Day.

What Does 'Pisco' Mean?

There are three theories as to the origin of the name. The word pisco is thought to derive from the Quechuan word pishku, meaning bird. It's no wonder the word was used so frequently: The Paracas National Reserve in Peru and the Chilean coast are both known as a bird watcher's paradise. Most historians say the (pishku) pisco name directly links to the Peruvian port town of Pisco, one of the first towns to be recorded on explorers' maps. Yet other historians point to the clay pots called "pishkus" that were used to store the brandy.

History aside, Peru and Chile each continue to produce their own versions of the popular spirit. The two varieties share the pisco name, but they're more like cousins than twin brothers. Each one maintains its individuality by following distinct distilling requirements and using different varieties of grapes — ultimately lending to small but notable differences in tastes.

But no matter who invented it or how it's distilled, pisco is clearly in the middle of a modern-day renaissance, giving Americans the pleasure of exploring this South American staple — no fireplace, pipe or tweed coat required.

Pisco FAQ

What does pisco taste like?

Pisco kind of tastes like the child of a sweet white wine and tequila with a strong aroma. It's a strong alcohol, with the final spirit falling between 30 and 43 percent alcohol in Chile and 38 and 48 percent in Peru.

Can you drink pisco straight?

Pisco's super-smooth flavor balances its high alcohol content and makes it a great straight-sipper.

What kind of liquor is pisco?

Pisco is a type of brandy distilled from fermented super-sweet grapes that are grown in both Peru and Chile.

Is a pisco sour safe to drink?

We're going to assume you're wondering this because a pisco sour traditionally contains raw egg whites. The answer is yes, generally it's safe. Many cocktails, including all sours, call for egg whites to make them foamy and frothy. The cocktail incorporates quite a bit of lime juice, which is very acidic and tends to kill any bacteria in the eggs in less than ten minutes. However, many bars don't even use egg whites anymore, in which case there's definitely nothing to worry about.

Is pisco from Peru or Chile?

Both! Peru and Chile both have a centuries-long, highly disputed history with pisco. The two have differences in regulations including the grapes that can be used, distilling processes, and dilution. Both are delicious though!