Well, I've spent the past seven weeks sampling and refining my palette for Pisco... the most famous Peruvian liquor. Pisco is actually a brandy made of grapes (generally muscat or quebranta) that originated in Peru, or so the Peruvians contend. Peru and Chile have been fighting over Pisco's origins for years now, with both maintaining that Pisco is native to their soil. I (perhaps I am biased) will be siding with the Peruvians because history points to Peruvian origins... there is even a town named Pisco in Peru, and it produces Pisco! While disputed origins don't sound to be that big of a deal, just wait there's more. Both Chile and Peru have launched massive Pisco origin campaigns that involve not only national legislation, but international treaties and agreements. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), in the Treaty of Lisbon, maintains the Peruvian origins, but in their free trade agreement negotiations Chile required that Australia acknowledge Chile as the progenitor of Pisco. It seems a bit silly, but national pride is a big thing in these parts. I've met Peruvians who do not even acknowledge that Ch
ile makes Pisco...Anyhow, I think Pisco is quite tasty. In Peru, most Pisco is produced in the Ica region, where Amy, Devin and I went last weekend. We were lucky enough to tour two different Pisco vineyards (or whatever they're called) and to sample several varieties of the stuff. I won't go into detail about the differences between puro and aromatico, but just rest assured that like most other types of booze and wine, ingredients and aging have much to do with the nuanced flavors.
The most famous drink made from Pisco is the Pisco Sour, a most delectable little treat. It's actually quite simple to make, just Pisco, simple syrup, egg whites, lime juice and bitters (for garnish). Combine the ingredients with ice and shake. The Pisco Sour is generally served in an old-fashioned glass and occassionally garnished with a lime. I'll be making some regularly when I return to the States, so if you're interested, let me know.
Pisco has definitely made the list of things I will miss when I leave Peru.
