Delhi High Court Resolves Pisco Dispute Between Peru and Chile

• The Delhi High Court ruled that both Peru and Chile can market their brandy as Pisco in India.
• The ruling requires clear labeling to indicate the country of origin.
• This is a landmark decision for India’s Geographical Indications framework, ensuring authenticity.
• Pisco lovers can expect a wider selection of this premium brandy.
• The decision balances both countries’ claims without dismissing consumer needs.

Court Rules on Long-standing Pisco Dispute

A long-standing dispute about Pisco branding between Peru and Chile has finally found resolution, albeit after two decades of legal battles in India. The Delhi High Court ruled that both Peruvian and Chilean producers can sell their grape-based brandy as Pisco in India, as long as they clearly state the country of origin on the labels. This significant decision is expected to affect the brandy market and allow consumers to have more options and clear information about what they are drinking.

Background of the Pisco Legal Battle

The origins of this dispute trace back to 2005, when the Peruvian Embassy sought Geographical Indications (GI) protection for Pisco. They aimed for exclusive rights to market their brandy made primarily in the Ica Valley. However, Chilean producers opposed this, emphasizing their historical claims to the term Pisco, noting production as early as 1733 in regions like Coquimbo and Atacama, leading to the involvement of multiple legal bodies over the years.

Impact of Delhi High Court’s Decision

In 2018, the Intellectual Property Appellate Board favored Peru, granting them exclusive rights, which sparked further appeals from Chilean associations. Ultimately, the Delhi High Court decided both countries could label their brandies as Pisco, thereby reshaping the landscape of this niche premium spirit in India. With the ruling, the GI Registrar was instructed to update registrations accordingly, highlighting the evolving framework for product origin in the Indian market.

In conclusion, the Delhi High Court’s decision allows for both Peruvian and Chilean Pisco to be marketed in India, thus enhancing consumer choice and protecting the integrity of the brands. This ruling represents a landmark in India’s Geographical Indications framework, emphasizing the need for clear product labeling. The growth of Pisco’s presence in high-end markets is anticipated, although challenges related to recognition and familiarity with the spirit remain.