The Peruvian High Commission in Ghana has organised a one-day master class for some stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism industry on one of its national drinks, Pisco, in Accra.
The participants, numbering about 30, were from hospitality and tourism organisations – including Labadi Beach Hotel, Afrikiko and Globe Productions Limited.
The masterclass, which was sponsored by the Kempiski Gold Coast Hotel, took participants through the traditional Pisco drink’s history and dedication of generations who have crafted it over 400 years.
It also sought to celebrate and explore the spirit of Peru, as well as discover Pisco’s potential in Ghana’s hospitality and tourism industry.
Speaking in the masterclass, Rosa Liliana Gomez Cardenas, the Peruvian High Commissioner to Ghana, said the event aims at inspiring new opportunities to bring Pisco to Ghanaian consumers and add a Peruvian flair to the country’s vibrant culinary and beverage scene.
She said the drink, which carried centuries of tradition, also offers a vibrant, unique flavour that shined in the Spirits Selection Tournament held in Italy.
She noted that Peru had gained international acclaim not only for its food, but also for its national drink, Pisco, which has been prized in most prestigious tournaments around the world – including the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, where two Pisco brands received the highest recognition in 2023.
She also indicated that Peru, aside from being honoured for the ninth consecutive time as a top global gastronomic destination by the World Travel Awards, its famous Lima-based restaurant, Central, was also named the world’s best restaurant by UK-based organisation, The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Madam Cardenas said the masterclass will not only provide insights into the art of making iconic Pisco Sour and refreshing cocktails, but also demonstrates how Pisco can be integrated into unique offerings by the participants. “It is a spirit that lends itself to experimentation, enhancing both traditional and contemporary cocktail recipes; and we are thrilled to introduce it to the Ghanaian market,” she said.
Madam Cardenas, who was hopeful that the experience will spark new collaborations, innovative ideas and a growing connection between Peru and Ghana, particularly using a mix of natural Ghanaian flavours with pisco, said Peruvian gastronomy has achieved this distinction because of its ability to fuse ancient tradition with innovation and creativity.
“Our chefs and mixologists are constantly reinterpreting their culinary heritage; and Pisco, as a central part of the evolution, serves as a bridge between the ancient and the modern,” she said. “We are excited to see Pisco take its place in Ghana’s top bars and restaurants, and look forward to the many creative ways you will help us share Peru’s spirit with Ghana,” she added.
Some participants who took part in the masterclass expressed appreciation for the opportunity.
