Peru: Prosperous Entertaining

From ExecutivePlanet.com

Prosperous Entertaining

About Pisco:

The first grape stocks were brought from the Canary Islands to the Ica oases south of Lima in 1551. Local winemakers soon started making a grape brandy they shipped to other Spanish colonies from the port of Pisco that eventually gave its name to the local grape brandy. Now, outstanding quality “pisco” full of flavor, bouquet and body is made in the warm oases dotting the dry coastal desert, all along the Southwestern Pacific coast of Peru, from Lima to Tacna.

Pisco is Peru’s national drink and is made in traditional distilleries in the Mala, San Antonio, Santa Cruz de Flores, San Vicente de Cañete, Pacarán and Lunahuaná wineries south of Lima. Further south, in Ica, over 80 wineries in the Chincha, Pisco, Ica, Palpa and Nasca valleys distill outstanding pisco, as well as further south, in the Arequipa valleys of Majes, Vítor and La Joya. Closer to the southern border in Moquegua, about some 10 wineries produce not only pisco but also “mistela”, a mix of pisco and wine. Fine pisco brandy and apricot fruit brandy is typical of the 35 wineries in Tacna, in the southern end of Peru. At several wineries visitors can stay on the premises and take part in pisco making during their stay. The grape* harvest in February and March is a truly popular celebration and February 8 is Peru’s Pisco Sour cocktail day. Pisco brandy made from “Italia” and “Quebranta” grape stocks are most popular while “acholado” blends a variety of grape stocks. All “pisco” is made 38° to 46° proof. Renowned “pisco sour cocktail”, one of the world’s most delicious, is made by shaking 3 oz. pisco, one oz. lime juice, one oz. gum syrup, a half egg white, and four ice cubes. Sprinkle 2 or 3 drops bitter on top after pouring.

To celebrate the Peruvian flag and its liquor, pisco, and promote their consumption, production and export, the first Saturday of February each year is set to officially celebrate the Day of the Pisco Sour. Various activities are scheduled for this day and all public and private entities must conduct their activities in a high and toast Flat Sour.