Pisco is a type of brandy produced in Peru and Chile, made from fermented grape juice. It has a distinct flavor profile that varies based on the grape variety used.

Can I make a Pisco Sour without egg white?

Yes, you can omit the egg white for a simpler version, but it will lack the signature frothy texture.

What type of bitters should I use?

Angostura bitters are commonly used, but you can experiment with other aromatic bitters for different flavor nuances.

Pisco Sour

Also known as: Писко Сауэр, Писко-Сауэр, Писко Саур, Писко-Саур, Pisco Sour

Illustration generated by AI from the recipe’s glass, ice and garnish — not a photograph of a real pour.

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Method: shake
Glass: Cocktail glass
Ice: Use ice cubes for the shaker.
Garnish: Garnish the cocktail with a few drops of bitters.
ABV: 18%

Ingredients

Pisco — 2 oz (60 ml)
Lemon Juice — 1 oz (30 ml)
Sugar — ½ oz (15 ml)
Ice — 1 pcs
Egg White

How to make it

Step 1: In a shaker, combine pisco, lemon juice, and sugar.
Step 2: Add the egg white.
Step 3: Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
Step 4: Vigorously shake the contents of the shaker.
Step 5: Strain the cocktail into a cocktail glass.
Step 6: Garnish the cocktail with a few drops of bitters.

Pisco Sour is a refreshing cocktail made with pisco, lemon juice, and sugar, featuring a light creamy texture from egg white.

The story

The Pisco Sour originated in Peru in the early 20th century, although its exact origins are debated. It gained popularity as a signature cocktail of the region, particularly in Lima. The drink's combination of pisco, a grape brandy, with citrus and sweetness has made it a staple in South American bars and a symbol of national pride in Peru.

How it tastes

The Pisco Sour offers a balanced flavor profile, combining the fruity notes of pisco with the tartness of lemon juice and the richness of egg white. It is typically served as a refreshing aperitif, ideal for warm weather or festive occasions.

Getting it right

The key to a successful Pisco Sour lies in the shaking technique. A vigorous dry shake (without ice) followed by a wet shake (with ice) helps to emulsify the egg white, creating a frothy texture. Straining is also crucial to achieve a smooth finish.

Variations

Chilcano — A variation that substitutes ginger ale for lemon juice and sugar, creating a lighter, more refreshing drink.
Pisco Sour with Passion Fruit — Incorporates passion fruit puree for a tropical twist, enhancing the drink's sweetness and complexity.

Substitutions

Pisco — If pisco is unavailable, a good quality brandy can be used as a substitute.
Egg White — Aquafaba (chickpea brine) can be used as a vegan alternative to egg white.

Questions

What is pisco?: Pisco is a type of brandy produced in Peru and Chile, made from fermented grape juice. It has a distinct flavor profile that varies based on the grape variety used.
Can I make a Pisco Sour without egg white?: Yes, you can omit the egg white for a simpler version, but it will lack the signature frothy texture.
What type of bitters should I use?: Angostura bitters are commonly used, but you can experiment with other aromatic bitters for different flavor nuances.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 10, 2026