Piscola Cocktail Recipe

Piscola Nutrition Facts

Calories:~150

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:~15g

Alcohol:~14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Piscola is a simple yet beloved cocktail hailing from Chile. It's a staple at social gatherings and a favorite among those who appreciate the unique flavor of Pisco, a grape brandy produced in the winemaking regions of Chile and Peru.

  • Origins
    • The drink gained popularity in the 1980s during the Pinochet regime.
    • It's often associated with Chilean national pride.
  • Popularity
    • Enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, especially during festive occasions.
  • Cultural Significance
    • The Piscola is more than just a cocktail; it's a part of Chilean identity.

How Piscola Tastes?

The Piscola offers a refreshing taste with a balance of sweet and bitter notes. The Pisco provides a floral and fruity undertone, while the cola adds a familiar caramel-like sweetness and effervescence. The lime slice introduces a zesty tang, making it a well-rounded and invigorating drink.

Interesting facts about Piscola

  • The name 'Piscola' is a portmanteau of 'Pisco' and 'Cola'.
  • In Chile, the 8th of February is celebrated as 'Pisco Sour Day', but Piscola also enjoys its share of the limelight.
  • Piscola is sometimes referred to as 'Combinado' or 'Chilean National Cocktail'.

Ingredients

  • Pisco: 1.7 oz(51ml)
  • Cola: 3.4 oz(102ml)
  • Ice cubes: As needed
  • Lime slice: 1

Pisco

The soul of the Piscola, Pisco (1.7oz), a grape brandy from South America, provides a distinct floral and fruity base. Too little and your cocktail is just a fancy soda, too much and you'll be sending 'I love you' texts to your ex. The balance here is key to keep the drink sophisticated and enjoyable. Alternatives? Well, swapping out for grappa could turn this into an Italiano alla 'Pisco', but expect a stronger, more robust bite.

Mary Mitkina

Cola

Cola (3.4oz), the sweet and familiar mixer, lends a caramel depth and bubbliness to the cocktail, creating a palate-pleaser that's both refreshing and indulgent. Not enough cola, and it's goodbye harmony, hello Pisco punch. More cola and you'll lose that special Pisco kick. It's like the perfect backup dancer, essential but not supposed to overshadow the star - Pisco.

Alex Green

Ice Cubes

Ice cubes are your little sub-zero heroes, chilling the drink to perfection. No ice and you'll be sipping on a lukewarm whimper of a cocktail. The right amount ensures your Piscola stays cool as a cucumber without diluting the passion too quickly.

Emma Rose

Lime Slice

Finally, the lime slice adds a zesty garnish that brings a fresh citrus note to each sip while brightening up the overall drink. It's like adding a dash of sunshine - without it, your Piscola loses its summery smile, and let's be honest, no one likes a grumpy cocktail.

Mary Mitkina

Recipe. How to make Piscola Drink

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour 1.7 oz of Pisco over the ice.
  3. Top with 3.4 oz of cola.
  4. Stir gently with a mixing spoon.
  5. Garnish with a slice of lime on the rim of the glass.

Pro Tips

  • For a truly authentic experience, use a Chilean Pisco brand.
  • Chill the glass beforehand to keep the drink colder for longer.
  • Adjust the ratio of Pisco to cola to suit your taste preferences.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

  • Chilean Empanadas: The hearty and spiced nature of empanadas pairs beautifully with the crisp and refreshing Piscola, as the cocktail can help cleanse the palate after each savory bite.
  • Seafood Ceviche: The citrus notes from the lime in the cocktail complement the acidity and freshness of a seafood ceviche, making it a delightful combination.
  • BBQ Ribs: Piscola's bold flavors can hold up to the richness of BBQ ribs, with the cola's sweetness matching that sticky glaze on the ribs.
  • Salted Nuts: A classic bar snack, salted nuts offer a simple yet tasty pairing, with the saltiness enhancing the sweet and potent flavors of the Piscola.

Drinks Pairings

  • Chilled Beer: For those who enjoy mixing their spirits, a cold beer on the side is a traditional 'yin to the yin', offering a contrasting bubbly and malty profile.
  • Sparkling Water: To cleanse the palate between sips, sparkling water is a refreshing choice.

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What you could change in Piscola

  • Pisco: If you can't find Chilean Pisco, Peruvian Pisco can be used as a substitute.
  • Cola: Any brand of cola will work, though some prefer the taste of Coca-Cola or Pepsi.

Explore all drinks starting with P here

And of course - twists🍹

Smoky Piscola

Ingredients: 1.7 oz Smoky Pisco, 3.4 oz Cola, Ice cubes, Lime wheel

Replace the regular Pisco with a smoky variety to add a mysterious whiff of bonfires to your drink. This twist is for those who like to walk on the wild side of the taste spectrum. The dance of smoke with the sweet cola creates a hauntingly delicious sip.

Spiced Piscola

Ingredients: 1.7 oz Pisco, 3.4 oz Spiced Cola, Ice cubes, Lime wheel

Here's an exotic spin, swap regular cola for a spiced cola laced with cinnamon and other spices. It will feel like Christmas came early, or like drinking a carnival in a glass. The warmth of the spices will waltz with the Pisco in a way that'll make your taste buds tango.

Green Garden Piscola

Ingredients: 1.7 oz Pisco, 3.4 oz Herbal Cola (with notes of thyme, lavender), Ice cubes, Lime wheel

For the botanical enthusiast, mix up your Piscola with an herbal cola. The herby notes will make you feel like you're sipping your cocktail in a blooming meadow on a spring day, not your average Tuesday night tipple.

In case you forgot basics how to make Piscola

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Piscola

What is Pisco and how is it made?

Pisco is a type of brandy produced in the wine-making regions of Chile and Peru. It is made by distilling fermented grape juice into a high-proof spirit.

Can Piscola be considered a highball cocktail?

Yes, Piscola is considered a highball cocktail because it consists of a base spirit (Pisco) topped with a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer (cola), served over ice in a tall glass.

Is there a specific type of glass recommended for serving a Piscola?

A Piscola is typically served in a highball glass, but any tall glass will suffice if a highball glass is not available.

Are there any variations of the Piscola that include additional ingredients?

Some variations may include a dash of bitters for complexity or different garnishes like orange slices or mint leaves for a twist on the traditional flavor profile.

How should I store Pisco to maintain its quality?

Pisco should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, it's best to consume it within a few months for optimal flavor.

Is the Piscola typically a drink of choice for any specific seasons or events?

Piscola is a versatile cocktail enjoyed year-round, but it's particularly popular during the summer and festive occasions due to its refreshing quality.

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