In the land of Pisco... Vine Zone "Geographical Indications"

Pisco/ Peru more than 400 years of History & Tradition (1613-2014).

 

Translated by Katrina Heimark

We often hear people talk about a guarantee of origin and good

quality of Pisco, also known as “Denominacion de Origen” in Spanish; but the question arises, do we know how to tell the difference between a Geographical Indication and a Guarantee of Origin? Due to this question, we will proceed to define the two.

What is a Geographical Indication?
A geographical indication is a sign that is used for products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are derived specifically from the place of origin.

In general, a geographical indication consists of the name of the product’s place of origin. A typical example is agricultural products that possess qualities that stem from their area of production, and are subject to specific local factors, such as weather and soil.

The fact that a sign can carry out the function of a geographical indication depends on national legislation and the perception that consumers have of this sign.

What is a Guarantee of Origin?
A Guarantee of Origin is a special type of geographical indication that generally consists of a geographic name. It can also be a traditional designation that is used for products that have specific qualities or characteristics that are essentially due to the geographical area of their production, made up of natural and human factors.


Champagne, Cognac, Roquefort, Chianti, Porto, Tequila and Pisco are examples of names that are associated with products of a determined nature, quality and geographical origin.

These indications are particularly exposed to unlawful appropriation and falsification by third parties, which can use the indications along with products that are not related to one other. Thus, the protection of said indications is exceedingly important, both on the national and international level. That is why treaties, such as the Lisbon Treaty, have been adopted specifically in response to the need for an international system that will facilitate the protection of the “Guarantees of Origin” in countries that are different from the country of origin.

At this time, our country has granted eight Guarantees of Origin: Pisco, Cusco Giant White Corn, Chulucanas, Pallar de Ica, Café Villa Rica, Loche de Lambayeque, Café Macchu Picchu– Huadquiña, Maca Junin-Pasco.

It is important to protect the rights of different guarantees of origin, as they aid producers in obtaining better prices for their products. As for consumers, the guarantee of origin represents a sort of certification in regards to production methods and product quality. And finally, guarantees of origin are important for the economic development of our country, as they serve as instruments for development and promotion of different regions.

By Gladys Romaní

Pisco bilingual magazine