Singani Day Date in the current year: February 13, 2026

Singani is a Bolivian liquor distilled from white Muscat of Alexandria grapes grown in the country’s high valleys. It was first produced in the early 16th century, shortly after the arrival of the Spanish in South America. Spanish missionaries grew grapes to produce sacramental wines and distilled the leftover grape juice. The liquor distilled by Bolivian missionaries was named singani in the late 16th century, presumably after a pre-Columbian village near the mission where it was first produced.

Unlike pisco, which is claimed as a national drink by both Chile and Peru, singani has always been an exclusively Bolivian spirit. Nearly 80% of the grapes used to produce Bolivian wine and singani are grown in the Tarija Department in southeastern Bolivia, where its production is centered. These grapes are cultivated at high altitudes in the Andes, typically between 1,600 and 3,000 meters above sea level, which gives singani its distinctive flavor profile.

To produce singani, raw wine made from Muscat Alexandria grapes is distilled once or twice, then diluted to about 40% ABV. The result is a clear, aromatic spirit with pronounced floral and fruity notes. This smooth, balanced liquor can be enjoyed on its own or in cocktails. The most popular Bolivian mixed drink made with singani is the chuflay. It consists of singani, ginger ale, and lime. Sprite, 7 Up, or another clear soft drink can substitute for ginger ale. Another popular singani-based drink is the yungueño, which consists of singani, sugar or simple syrup, and orange juice.

Singani is considered the national drink of Bolivia. It is served at weddings, birthday parties, religious holidays, folk festivals, and other special events, most notably the annual Carnival of Oruro and Saint John’s Eve.

American filmmaker Steven Soderbergh fell in love with singani at first sip while filming his epic biopic Che in Bolivia in 2007. A few years later, he partnered with a Bolivian distillery to launch his own singani brand, Singani 63, and introduce American consumers to his favorite drink.

Soderbergh and the Bolivian government petitioned the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to officially recognize singani as a distinct Bolivian product and specific type of brandy, giving it a protected identity in the U.S. market, similar to cachaça, pisco, and tequila. Their campaign achieved its goal in January 2023. Now, only grape brandy made in Bolivia from Muscat of Alexandria grapes and produced according to recognized traditional methods can be labeled and sold in the US as singani.

Soderbergh and Singani 63 created Singani Day to raise awareness of this amazing drink and encourage people to try it. Singani Day is celebrated on February 13, the date the TTB rule recognizing singani as a distinct Bolivian product took effect.