Introducing Chilean Pisco

In Japan, many people may think of wine when they think of Chilean alcoholic beverages, but in addition to wine, Chile also has other special drinks.

One of them is called Pisco.

A fruity distilled spirit made from Muscat grapes, only distilled spirits produced in the two provinces of Atacama in northern Chile and neighboring Coquimbo can be called Chilean Pisco under the law regarding designations of origin.

At an event in stylish Daikan-yama, we were introduced to this special drink, Pisco from Chile. It was hosted by the Commercial Department of the Chilean Embassy (ProChile Japan Office).

From left: Primer Encanto, Leyenda Atacameña, Doble Destilado, Pisco Jahir Saba, Pisco Paitanas
Huasco Valley,Copiapo Valley,
Importer: Buenmost Co., Ltd. — From left: Primer Encanto, Leyenda Atacameña, Doble Destilado, Pisco Jahir Saba, Pisco Paitanas

In this event, five producers from Chile’s Atacama region were invited to introduce their specific blend of Pisco and educate the audience on the popularity of Pisco in their country. It was the first promotion of Chilean Pisco in Japan.

The Pisco introduced at this time is as follows:

Pisco Armidita – Primer Encanto (40%) / Huasco Valley (Importer: Buenmost Co., Ltd.)
Pisco Bramador – Leyenda Atacameña (40%) / Copiapo Valley (Importer: Buenmost Co., Ltd.)
Pisco Prófugo – Doble Destilado (43%) / Huasco Valley (not imported to Japan)
Pisco Paitanas (40%) / Huasco Valley (not imported to Japan)
Pisco Jahir Saba (40%) / Huasco Valley (not imported to Japan)

China is the main market within Asia, with approximately 20,000 liters (230,000 USD) exported last year. But also European countries such as Germany have picked on this trend. The amount exported to Japan is very small, with approximately 3,000 liters exported in 2022 and a value of approximately $30,000.

We look forward to more opportunities to enjoy Chilean Pisco in Japan in the future.