By Julia Diakow

Rudyard Kipling once waxed poetic about the beloved national spirit of Peru, Pisco, deeming it “the shavings of cherubs’ wings, the glory of a tropical dawn, the red clouds of sunset, and the fragments of lost epics by dead masters.” For those of us out there, speaking in a far less romantic prose, at least we can wholeheartedly agree that Pisco is indeed, delicious! Whether one is preparing to imbibe with a fragrant Moscatel varietal or a heartier Quebranta, it will no doubt be the perfect bottle to grab for those patio days ahead.

This deliciously flavorful and fruity Spring Sipper finds its base in Campo de Encanto’s Barkeeps Whimsy Pisco; a super aromatic, Torontel driven grape brandy. The subtle honey and white flowers in the Whimsy mix perfectly with our strawberry and sumac syrup, a blend of sweet and tart. The sumac bush, hailing from the Middle East, produces deep red berries, which are dried and ground into a coarse powder. The spice was said to have been used in Europe to add tartness to many dishes before lemons were introduced to Rome. Combine with a good lug of citrus and a dash of Bittermens’ Tiki Bitters for spice, and you’ve got the ideal patio crusher!