UNESCO Certifies Peru’s Pisco Heritage, Strengthening National Identity
UNESCO certified a collection of Peruvian manuscripts from 1587-1613, which confirms the early production of pisco. This recognition strengthens Peru’s claim against Chile regarding pisco’s origin. Notable officials expressed this as a triumph for national identity amidst a historical dispute over the spirit between the two nations.
On December 20, 2024, UNESCO recognized a collection of manuscripts from early Spanish colonial Peru, dating from 1587 to 1613, as genuine. This acknowledgment marks a significant moment for the nation, as these documents serve as the earliest known evidence of pisco production and trade in Peru. Their inclusion in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register underscores their cultural and historical importance, highlighting the origins of grape cultivation and brandy production in the region.
This international recognition bolsters Peru’s long-standing claim against Chile regarding the heritage of pisco. Former Agriculture Minister Milton von Hesse celebrated the decision as a pivotal moment, asserting that public perception will increasingly regard pisco as distinctly Peruvian. Production Minister Sergio Gonzalez Guerrero described this development as a victory for national identity and the dedication of local producers.
The pisco dispute between Peru and Chile traces back to the early 20th century when Chile first declared pisco as a protected designation of origin in 1931. This declaration coincided with Chile’s push for brandy industrialization and was influenced by the historical context of the War of the Pacific, which left unresolved tensions between the nations. The recognition of these manuscripts adds a new layer to the ongoing debate over pisco’s lineage, especially as both countries have sought to validate their claims over this emblematic spirit.
The recognition of pisco’s heritage through UNESCO reflects broader cultural and historical implications tied to both Peru and Chile. The Canadian-based spirit’s production and designation of origin continue to be a contentious issue stemming from early 20th-century events and colonial history. As Peru establishes its claim through newly authenticated documents, there exists a palpable determination to represent pisco as a core aspect of national identity in the face of international scrutiny.
In summary, UNESCO’s certification of historical manuscripts solidifies Peru’s claim to the origin and exclusivity of pisco, a highly valued national spirit. This acknowledgment is significant amid a longstanding rivalry with Chile over pisco’s heritage. As this case evolves, it may redefine perceptions of pisco on a global scale.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
