Michael Hepworth
PISCO PORTON LAUNCHES LA CARAVEDO PISCO
Pisco puro made from Quebranta grapes
HOLLYWOOD(Spiritsman)6/21/15/–This pure spirit brand imported from Peru is gaining rapidly in the USA, and the latest variation on the theme is La Caravedo, a Pisco puro made from Quebranta grapes.
The new expression comes from Master Distiller Johnny Schuler at Hacienda La Caravedo located in Ica, Peru, which is in the foothills of the Andes. It is also known as the oldest distillery in the Americas, and was established way back in 1684. The name itself is based on the port of Pisco in Peru, and it also means “little bird” in the language of Peru’s Quechua Indians.
La Caravedo is made solely from the Quebranta grape which is one of the eight grapes allowed by Peruvian law to make Pisco. It is a non-varietal grape which is known for its fullness and flavor.
It takes 8 pounds of grapes to make one bottle of the drink, which when it eventually arrives stateside sells for a retail price of $24.99 for the 750 ml bottle. Alcohol volume for La Caravedo is 40% and is 80 proof. As a comparison to the Pisco Porton brand from the company which is of course a lot more established, this strong white spirit is 43% alcohol volume, and a high 86 proof.
It is a tough job being a Pisco distiller because since it is distilled to proof, he only has one chance to make each small batch exactly right. La Caravedo is a crystal clear spirit with a slightly sweet palate and notes of botanicals and dried fruits. On the nose it is quite crisp and fresh, and you might smell the unusual combination of grapes, wheat and caramel.
The Pisco spirit dates back to the 16th century and must be produced in a specific region and under certain strictly enforced guidelines that include being crafted in traditional copper pot stills. No additives or flavorings can be added to the finished product, and surprisingly that includes water as well. Apart from the aforementioned Quebranta grape, the other grapes that are allowed are Albilla, Italia, Mollar, Moscatel, Negra Corriente, Torontel and Uvina.
SUMMER DRINK RECIPES
LA CARAVEDO BLUSH
2 oz La Caravedo
Fresh Lemonade
Lemon Wheel
Add La Caravedo to a tall glass filled with ice. Top w/lemonade and garnish w/lemon wheel
LA CARAVEDO COOLER
2 oz La Caravedo
1 oz Fresh lime juice
1 oz Simple Syrup
Fresh Mango Juice
Soda
Add ice and all ingredients except mango juice and soda in a mixing tin. Shake and strain
Into ice-filled Collins glass. Top with mango juice and a splash of soda and garnish w/lime twist.
www.piscoporton.com
Michael Hepworth
287 S.Robertson Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211
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