The 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition celebrated the vibrant tradition and craftsmanship behind Peru’s national spirit: pisco. Judges were impressed by the complexity, aromatic range, and elegance showcased across this year’s top entries. From Mosto Verde styles to classic Puro and Acholado expressions, these standout piscos reflect the richness of Peru’s diverse terroirs and grape varieties.

Gran Paso is a premium pisco brand known for its elegant and expressive spirits, carefully distilled in the Ica Valley. Their Mosto Verde expressions are crafted from partially fermented grape musts, resulting in a rich and aromatic profile that highlights the fruit’s natural complexity. This standout Italia varietal captures the floral beauty and freshness that define the style, impressing judges with its finesse and bold character.

Also from Gran Paso, this Quebranta Puro pisco is distilled exclusively from Quebranta grapes - a non-aromatic varietal prized for its structure and depth. This expression showcases Gran Paso’s dedication to highlighting the singular qualities of each grape type. With a robust yet elegant flavor profile, it delivers the kind of clean, grounded complexity that Quebranta lovers seek.

The third Gran Paso finalist is a Mosto Verde made from the aromatic Torontel grape. Known for its intense floral and spice notes, this varietal offers a layered experience from start to finish. Gran Paso’s careful fermentation and slow distillation methods allow the bold personality of the grape to shine through, resulting in a velvety, captivating pisco.

Intipalka (“Valley of the Sun” in Quechua) is a leading name in Peruvian winemaking and distillation. This Pisco reflects a deep respect for tradition combined with modern precision. Sourced from estate-grown grapes in the Ica Valley, this single-varietal expression offers a vibrant take on one of Peru’s most beloved aromatic grapes.

With more than 100 years of experience, Santiago Queirolo is a pioneer in the Peruvian spirits world. Their Pisco Acholado is a masterful blend of different grape varietals, designed to bring together the best characteristics of each. This style is beloved for its versatility and balance, and Santiago Queirolo’s version offers a rich, complex profile that’s both approachable and layered.

These standout piscos exemplify the rich diversity and exceptional craftsmanship of Peru’s national spirit, offering a journey through aromatic varietals, meticulous production methods, and regional character. Each finalist has earned its place among the best, impressing judges with complexity, balance, and identity in the glass. The ultimate winner of Best Peruvian Pisco will be revealed at the Top Shelf 2025 Awards Gala, where the industry’s most celebrated spirits will take center stage. Stay tuned as we honor the producers shaping the future of pisco on a global scale.