PERU: Pisco degree to launch as global demand leaps

By Sophie Kevany | 1 May 2009

Foreign interest in pisco, the Peruvian grape-based brandy, has prompted authorities to launch a distance learning degree for the spirit drink.

Jointly run by the Peruvian Institute of Wine and Pisco (IDVIP) and the University of San Martin de Porres, the eight-month course will require a tasting visit to Peru. It will be launched at the end of May.

"We were getting so many enquiries about pisco from people and professionals around the world, we decided to move our programme onto the web," said Caterina Capurro, IDVIP director, adding that more than 100 applications have been received.

The course, which offers an agricultural engineering level qualification of Pisco Specialist and Taster, will be offered initially in Spanish. An English version will follow.

Peruvian pisco exports rose by 44% to US$1.5m in 2008.

Sectors: Spirits