Peruvian spirit Pisco set to conquer Hungary

Under the captivating banner of “Pisco, Spirit of Peru,” the Embassy of Peru successfully held the first Pisco Masterclass to promote the flag drink of Peru in Hungary. Held at the centrally located and exclusive Kempinski Hotel Corvinus in Budapest, the event catered primarily to professionals in the hotel and restaurant industries, the press, media and liquor distributors.

The opening speech was delivered by the Ambassador of Peru to Hungary, Edgar Pérez Alván, who stressed that Pisco is more than just a spirit; it is the soulful elixir of Peru, a source of national pride zealously defended. The ambassador articulated Peru’s ambitious vision for Pisco, expressing their commitment to introduce as many Hungarians as possible to this luscious drink in the coming years, which can become a popular drink in the bars of the Hungarian capital, either on its own or in exquisite cocktails.

Ambassador of Peru to Hungary, Edgar Pérez Alván. Photo: Bálint Hirling

The Masterclass, conducted by mixologist Giancarlo Nazario, who arrived from London for the occasion, drew an audience of around seventy, comprising bartenders and procurement managers from premier hotels, restaurants and bars in Budapest eager to enrich their Pisco repertoire.

The event started with an insightful presentation on the origin and history of Pisco, delving into the importance of its denomination of origin and the particularities that set it apart. Nazario explained that Peru boasts five regions authorised for producing the protected Pisco, derived from a palette of eight grape varieties. Emphasising Peru’s commitment to upholding Pisco’s integrity, he affirmed that authentic Pisco contains no additional water, sugar or additives. Nazario also talked about the three distinctive types of Pisco—’puros,’ ‘mosto verde,’ and ‘achilado‘—each distinguished by its unique preparation.

Afterward, the mixologist held a live demonstration, crafting four tantalising cocktails using the Peruvian distillate: Pisco Sour, Chilcano, Captain, and Zamboni—all of which were savored by the enthusiastic attendees.

The event garnered attention from various media outlets, local liquor marketers and international Pisco distributors. The latter group travelled to Budapest from Germany and France to present their products and explore possible business opportunities in the Hungarian market. These distributors also had the opportunity to present their products to those interested in a “B2B” space, which took place at the end of the Masterclass.

Building on the success of the Pisco Masterclass, the Embassy envisions hosting promotional events titled ‘Pisco Nights’ throughout 2024. These events, set in the foremost hotels, bars, and restaurants of Budapest, will welcome a variety of guests, local media and the general public to familiarise themselves with the Peruvian national drink, with a special focus on the timeless Pisco Sour and the invigorating Chilcano cocktails.

• Read also: Interview with Deputy Foreign Minister Ignacio Higueras Hare of Peru