The Chilean Pisco Viticultural Cultural Landscape has been added to UNESCO’s Tentative List, marking a major step toward its potential designation as a World Heritage Site.
The announcement, made Tuesday, follows the submission of documentation by the Chilean government through its Permanent Delegation to UNESCO. The effort was led by the Ministries of Culture, Agriculture, and Foreign Affairs, with support from local communities, heritage experts, and pisco producer associations.
The inclusion acknowledges the cultural, historical, and agricultural significance of the pisco-producing regions of Chile and reinforces their value as part of the global winemaking legacy.
Culture Minister Carolina Arredondo said the recognition honors a “living heritage” rooted in centuries-old traditions and sustainable practices. “This milestone allows us to strengthen identity, encourage cultural tourism, and support local communities,” she said.
Agriculture Minister Esteban Valenzuela emphasized the designation’s potential economic impact. “We’re proud of an industry that produces up to 40 million liters of pisco annually and is driven by cooperatives and small farmers. This recognition supports our push for international acknowledgment of Chilean pisco’s designation of origin,” he said.
Pisco Producers Association President Francisco Munizaga welcomed the news as the result of years of work. “It’s a very important milestone. We’re proud of our heritage and what this means for the future of Chilean pisco,” he said.
Chile will now begin preparing a formal nomination dossier, which will be evaluated by UNESCO and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). If successful, the site could be formally inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2025.
