Whiskey in the Andes: A Surprising Pursuit in Cusco
When you think of Peru, your mind likely conjures images of Machu Picchu, the vibrant textiles of the Sacred Valley, and of course, the iconic Pisco Sour. But for those of us who call Cusco home, or are lucky enough to visit, there’s another spirit that’s quietly gaining traction: whiskey. While Peru is globally renowned for its pisco, the Andean highlands offer a unique landscape for exploring a different kind of spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or a curious traveler looking for a taste of something beyond the traditional, finding quality whiskey in Cusco is an achievable and rewarding endeavor. Let’s dive into where and how to find your perfect bottle in the Imperial City.
Understanding the Local Landscape: Pisco vs. Whiskey in Peru
Before we embark on our whiskey hunt, it’s essential to set the context. Pisco, a grape brandy, is Peru’s national spirit and holds a cherished place in Peruvian culture. You’ll find it everywhere, from bustling bars to remote villages. Whiskey, on the other hand, is an imported spirit, meaning its availability and price will differ significantly from local offerings. This doesn’t mean you can’t find excellent whiskey; it just means we need to be a bit more strategic in our search. The burgeoning craft spirit scene in Peru is also slowly starting to influence the availability of spirits, though whiskey remains largely a domain of international brands.
Where to Find Your Whiskey in Cusco: A Local’s Guide
Cusco, with its blend of ancient Incan history and modern tourism, offers a surprisingly diverse retail environment. While you won’t find dedicated whiskey shops on every corner, there are several reliable places to source your preferred dram. These range from upscale liquor stores to well-stocked supermarkets and even some unique artisanal shops.
1. Supermarkets: The Convenient Choice
For everyday convenience and a decent selection of popular international brands, supermarkets are your go-to. The larger chains usually have dedicated alcohol sections with a variety of whiskies.
- Supermercados Peruanos (Wong & Metro): These are the most reliable supermarket chains in Cusco. You’ll find them in various locations throughout the city. Wong, in particular, often carries a slightly more premium selection. Look for brands like Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, and sometimes even a few single malts. The prices here are generally competitive, especially if you catch any promotional offers. These are excellent for picking up a familiar favorite before heading out on an adventure.
- Smaller Local Markets: While less likely to have a wide selection of premium whiskies, don’t discount smaller neighborhood markets entirely. You might stumble upon a local Peruvian rum or a more budget-friendly international blend.
Insider Tip: Supermarket promotions can be fantastic. Keep an eye out for ‘2×1’ deals or discounts on specific bottles, especially around Peruvian holidays or major sporting events.
2. Specialty Liquor Stores: For the Discerning Palate
While Cusco doesn’t boast a plethora of dedicated whiskey emporiums like some larger global cities, there are a few places that cater to a more discerning taste. These stores often have a more curated selection and knowledgeable staff.
- La Bodega de la Cerveza Artesanal (and similar establishments): While the name suggests beer, many of these modern, often upscale, beverage shops in tourist-heavy areas like San Blas or near the Plaza de Armas are expanding their spirits selections. They are increasingly stocking craft beers, wines, and a growing range of imported liquors, including whiskies. The staff here are usually passionate about beverages and can offer recommendations. They tend to carry a mix of popular brands and sometimes more niche or premium single malts and blends.
- Airport Duty-Free: If all else fails, or if you’re looking for a last-minute purchase, the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) has a duty-free shop. While prices can sometimes be higher than in the city, you might find some exclusive travel retail bottles or simply a reliable selection of well-known whiskies.
3. Hotels and Restaurants: Enjoying a Dram, Not Necessarily Buying a Bottle
While not a place to ‘buy’ a bottle to take home, many of Cusco’s higher-end hotels and reputable restaurants will have a selection of whiskies on their bar menus. This is a great way to sample a particular brand or expression before committing to a purchase. If you find something you love, you can then inquire if they know where you might be able to purchase a bottle locally. Some hotel gift shops might also carry a small, curated selection of premium spirits.
What to Look For: Popular Whiskey Brands in Cusco
Given that whiskey is imported, the most commonly found brands in Cusco will be the globally recognized ones. You can expect to find a good range of:
- Blended Scotch Whiskies: Johnnie Walker (Red Label, Black Label, Double Black, sometimes Green or Gold), Chivas Regal (12, 18), Ballantine’s, Dewar’s, Famous Grouse.
- Single Malt Scotch Whiskies: While the selection is more limited, you might find popular entry-level single malts from distilleries like Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, Macallan (often the 12-year-old), and sometimes Highland Park or Laphroaig.
- Bourbon and American Whiskeys: Brands like Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam, and Maker’s Mark are usually available.
- Irish Whiskeys: Jameson is typically the most prevalent.
Peruvian Spirits to Consider: While you’re on the hunt for whiskey, don’t forget to explore Peru’s own spirit, pisco! Trying a Pisco Italia or Acholado is a must. For those interested in local craft spirits, keep an eye out for any emerging Peruvian gins or artisanal rums. You can explore more about the exciting world of craft beverages in Peru on dropt.beer’s insights and news blog.
Pricing and Value: What to Expect
Whiskey in Cusco, like anywhere else in Peru, will be more expensive than in its country of origin due to import taxes, shipping costs, and retailer markups.
- Supermarkets: Generally offer the best value for mainstream brands. A bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label might range from S/. 120 to S/. 180 (Peruvian Soles), depending on promotions.
- Specialty Stores: Prices can be higher, especially for premium or rare bottles, but you’re paying for selection and expertise.
- Hotels/Bars: Expect to pay significantly more per shot or cocktail, as this includes service and the ambiance.
Exchange Rate Reminder: Always be aware of the current exchange rate between your home currency and the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Prices in Soles can seem high, but the exchange rate might make it more reasonable than you think.
Navigating Local Customs and Etiquette
When purchasing alcohol in Peru, there aren’t many specific customs you need to worry about, especially in tourist areas. However, a few points to keep in mind:
- Identification: While not always strictly enforced for alcohol purchases, you must be 18 years old to legally purchase alcohol in Peru. Have your ID handy if you look young.
- Bargaining: Bargaining is generally not practiced in established supermarkets or liquor stores. It might be possible in smaller, less formal markets, but it’s not common for packaged goods like bottled spirits.
- Responsible Consumption: Cusco is at high altitude. Be mindful of your alcohol consumption, especially during your first few days. Altitude sickness is real, and alcohol can exacerbate its symptoms. Stay hydrated with water and coca tea.
Beyond Buying: Enjoying Your Whiskey in Cusco
Once you’ve secured your bottle, how do you best enjoy it in Cusco?
- Hotel Room Relaxation: After a long day of exploring ruins and vibrant markets, unwinding in your hotel with a glass of whiskey is a perfect way to relax.
- Picnic with a View: Find a scenic spot overlooking the city or the surrounding mountains (respecting local regulations, of course) for a quiet moment of reflection.
- Sharing with New Friends: If you’re staying in a hostel or have met fellow travelers, sharing a bottle can be a great way to bond.
- Experimenting with Cocktails: While a classic Pisco Sour reigns supreme, you could try making a simple whiskey cocktail if you have mixers. However, we recommend savoring the whiskey neat or with a drop of water to appreciate its nuances, especially if you’ve found a quality single malt.
Exploring Peruvian Craft Spirits
While this guide focuses on whiskey, it’s worth noting that Peru has a growing craft beverage scene. If you’re interested in supporting local producers and trying something uniquely Peruvian, look for:
- Artisanal Pisco: Seek out small-batch piscos from different regions and grape varietals.
- Peruvian Craft Beer: Cusco has a vibrant craft beer scene, with breweries like Cervecería San Blas offering excellent local brews. You can often find these at bars and some specialty shops. For more on this, check out dropt.beer’s shop for curated selections.
- Emerging Gins and Rums: Keep an eye out for any Peruvian-produced gins or craft rums. These are still relatively niche but are indicative of the expanding spirits landscape.
Conclusion: A Toast to Cusco’s Spirit Selections
Finding whiskey in Cusco is an adventure in itself. While it might not be the first spirit that comes to mind when planning a trip to Peru, the availability of international brands in supermarkets and specialty stores means you can certainly find a comforting or exciting dram to enjoy. Remember to factor in import costs, enjoy the convenience of supermarkets for popular choices, and explore specialty shops for potentially rarer finds. Most importantly, savor your time in this magical city, and perhaps, raise a glass of your chosen whiskey to the enduring spirit of the Andes.
For those looking to explore the broader world of spirits and craft beverages, keep dropt.beer bookmarked for future discoveries and insights.
