Ever found yourself halfway through mixing a Pisco Sour or baking a Peruvian-inspired dessert, only to realize you’re out of pisco? That grape-based brandy, with its floral notes and smooth finish, is a key ingredient in many South American recipes.
But don’t let its absence stop you—pisco’s unique flavor can be recreated with spirits and ingredients you likely already have in your bar or pantry.
Pisco, a South American spirit made from distilled grapes, is beloved for its versatility in cocktails like the Pisco Sour and desserts like suspiro limeño. But whether you’re out of pisco, avoiding alcohol, or just experimenting, these substitutes will deliver the same vibrant flavor.
From other brandies to creative non-alcoholic options, here’s how to keep your cocktails and desserts on track—no last-minute liquor store runs required.

7 Easy Substitutes for Pisco
Pisco’s charm lies in its floral, fruity notes and smooth finish. These substitutes mimic its flavor profile while adding their own unique twist. Perfect for cocktails, marinades, or desserts, here’s how to adapt without compromise:
1. Grappa: The Italian Cousin
Grappa, an Italian grape-based brandy, is the closest match to pisco in terms of flavor and origin. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that grappa can be slightly more robust and earthy.
This substitute works beautifully in cocktails like the Pisco Sour or as a dessert drizzle. I once used grappa in a last-minute Pisco Sour, and the floral notes were spot-on. For a smoother finish, chill the grappa before using.
Pro tip: Opt for a high-quality grappa to avoid harsh flavors.
If you’re exploring grape-based spirits, try these grappa substitutes.
2. Brandy: The Classic Stand-In
Brandy, made from distilled wine, shares pisco’s fruity and floral notes. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that brandy can be slightly sweeter and less aromatic.
This swap is perfect for cocktails or baking. My friend used brandy in a Peruvian-inspired flan, and the caramelized flavor was a hit. For a more authentic taste, add a splash of lime juice to mimic pisco’s brightness.
Fun twist: Use cognac for a richer, more complex flavor.
For more brandy-based alternatives, check out these brandy substitutes.
3. Vodka + Simple Syrup: The Neutral Base
Vodka provides a neutral alcohol base, while simple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to mimic pisco’s smoothness. Mix 2 ounces vodka with ½ ounce simple syrup for a quick pisco substitute.
This substitute works well in cocktails like the Pisco Sour or Chilcano. I used this blend for a last-minute cocktail party, and the result was refreshing and balanced. For extra flavor, add a dash of orange blossom water.
Watch out: Vodka lacks pisco’s floral notes, so adjust with aromatic ingredients.
Need more vodka hacks? Try these vodka substitutes.
4. Tequila: The Bold & Earthy Swap
Tequila, made from agave, brings a bold, earthy flavor that works well as a pisco substitute in cocktails. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that tequila is more robust and less floral.
This swap is perfect for margarita-style cocktails or spicy marinades. My cousin used tequila in a Pisco Sour-inspired drink, and the smoky twist was a hit. For a smoother finish, use reposado tequila.
Pro tip: Add a splash of lime juice to balance tequila’s boldness.
Love tequila alternatives? Explore these tequila substitutes.
5. White Rum: The Tropical Twist
White rum, with its light and slightly sweet profile, is a great substitute for pisco in tropical cocktails. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that rum is sweeter and less floral.
This substitute shines in cocktails like the Chilcano or mojito-inspired drinks. My neighbor used white rum in a Pisco Sour variation, and the tropical flavor was a hit. For extra complexity, add a dash of bitters.
Fun twist: Use spiced rum for a warm, aromatic twist.
For more rum-based ideas, check out these white rum substitutes.
6. Gin: The Herbal Alternative
Gin, with its botanical notes, can mimic pisco’s floral complexity. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that gin is more herbal and less fruity.
This swap is perfect for cocktails like the Pisco Sour or gin fizz variations. I used gin in a last-minute cocktail, and the herbal notes added a unique twist. For extra brightness, add a splash of citrus juice.
Watch out: Choose a floral gin to better match pisco’s profile.
Need more gin alternatives? Try these gin substitutes.
7. Non-Alcoholic Grape Juice Reduction: The Sober Option
For a non-alcoholic substitute, reduce grape juice to mimic pisco’s fruity sweetness. Simmer 1 cup grape juice until it reduces by half, then cool before using.
This substitute works well in mocktails or desserts. My brother used this reduction in a non-alcoholic Pisco Sour, and the fruity flavor was a hit. For extra depth, add a splash of lime juice and a pinch of sugar.
Pro tip: Use Concord grape juice for a richer flavor.
If you’re diving into non-alcoholic alternatives, explore these grape juice substitutes.

Kimberly Baxter is the proud owner of the food blog Eatdelights.com. A self-proclaimed foodie, Kimberly loves to cook and share her recipes with others. She has been blogging about food since 2010 and has amassed a following of loyal readers.
Her recipes are creative, delicious, and easy to follow. In addition to her blog, Kimberly also enjoys writing for other publications.