Pisco Portón

Pisco Portón: From Peru comes this national heritage white spirit distilled from grapes. So think grappa, but mellower, especially this one by Portón, clearly targeted for the international market.

It’s a mosto verde, which means not all the sugars get fermented, lowering the alcohol level, and fiery mouthfeel, compared to lesser piscos. And then it’s aged in cement vessels (the wonderfully named cubas de guardia) and not oak — all the flavor comes from the original grapes and natural yeast.

Straight it’s a bit astringent, but the Pisco sour is a cocktail for those desiring the love-child of a daiquiri and a margarita. Pisco, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, egg white. You can blend it, if you want it icy/frothy, or drink it up. Don’t forget the drip of bitters for color and depth. It’s an exotic delight made all the better with such a fine spirit at its heart.

See piscoporton.com.