National Pisco Day

Cheerful individuals clinking glasses filled with brightly colored pisco cocktails, dressed in vibrant attire, against a backdrop of Peruvian cultural motifs.. — National pisco day illustration

Welcome to the exciting world of National Pisco Day! Get ready for a delightful journey through the history, flavor, and cultural significance of this beloved drink. Whether you're an avid cocktail enthusiast or a curious explorer of all things boozy, this article is sure to pique your interest. So, grab your shaker, pour yourself a glass, and let's dive into the fascinating tale of National Pisco Day!

When is Pisco Day?

It's national pisco day on the 26th July.

The Origins of Pisco

Let's start at the very beginning (a very good place to start, right?). Pisco is a type of brandy made from grapes and hails from the beautiful countries of Peru and Chile. Both nations claim to be the rightful home of this spirited elixir, sparking a friendly rivalry that adds to the allure of Pisco Day.

The word 'pisco' is derived from the Quechuan language, meaning 'bird.' Legend has it that the name was inspired by the clay containers shaped like birds used to store and transport the precious liquid. Talk about a tweet-worthy tidbit of history!

A Toast to Pisco Day

On this joyous occasion, people from all around the world come together to raise a glass in celebration of Pisco. From the bustling streets of Lima to the sun-drenched vineyards of Chile, Pisco aficionados unite to honor this versatile and delicious liquor.

But what's the best way to enjoy Pisco, you ask? Peruvian Pisco is often sipped neat or served in classic cocktails like the Pisco Sour, while Chilean Pisco is commonly used as a base for the popular drink known as the Pisco Punch. Whichever your preference, one thing is certain – Pisco is here to delight your taste buds.

A Spirited Celebration

Every year on July 26th, National Pisco Day comes alive with vibrant festivities. Tastings, cocktail competitions, and cultural events fill the day with cheer and a touch of wine-induced merriment. It's a great opportunity to learn more about the history and production of Pisco while enjoying its smooth and flavorful essence.

So, raise your glass, clink it with others, and let the spirit of Pisco take you on a tantalizing journey of flavors and traditions. Whether you're a seasoned Pisco lover or a curious first-timer, National Pisco Day is the perfect excuse to raise a toast and say, 'Salud!' (which is Spanish for 'Cheers!').

History behind the term 'Pisco'

1532

The Inca Empire

Pisco's history begins in the year 1532 when the Inca Empire ruled over large parts of South America. The Incas were known to produce a fermented beverage from grapes called 'pisqu' or 'pisccu.' This drink was made from a special variety of grape grown in the Pisco Valley, located in present-day Peru. The Incas highly valued this beverage and considered it sacred.

1572

Spanish Influence

In 1572, Spanish conquistadors arrived in Peru and began to exert control over the region. They discovered the local alcoholic beverage produced by the Incas and began to adapt it to their own tastes. The Spanish introduced copper distillation stills to improve the production process and enhance the flavor of the beverage. With time, the name 'pisqu' or 'pisccu' evolved into 'pisco,' named after the port city of Pisco where it was often exported.

1613

The First Pisco Vineyard

In the year 1613, the first official vineyard dedicated to the cultivation of grapes for pisco production was established in the Pisco Valley. The fertile lands and ideal climate of this region contributed to the high-quality grapes used to produce pisco. The wine made from these grapes was then distilled into pisco, which gained popularity both locally and among European settlers in South America.

1764

Distinctive Geographic Denomination

By the year 1764, pisco had gained enough recognition and popularity that it was granted a distinctive geographic denomination by the Spanish Crown. This denotation highlighted the significance of the Pisco Valley and surrounding areas as the only regions allowed to produce and market the authentic spirit named 'pisco.' This classification was an important step in establishing pisco as a unique and protected product.

1821

Peruvian Independence

In 1821, Peru gained its independence from Spanish colonial rule. This political change had a significant impact on the production and promotion of pisco. The newly formed government recognized pisco as a symbol of national identity and began actively promoting it as a cultural heritage. Pisco has since become closely associated with Peruvian culture, celebrated as a traditional spirit and a key ingredient in famous cocktails like the Pisco Sour.

Did you know?

Did you know that the Pisco Sour, a popular cocktail made with Pisco, was named the 'Best Cocktail in the World' by the International Bartender Association in 2003? Cheers to that!