What is Cachaca?:
Cachaça (pronounced kah-SHAH-sah) is a distilled spirit from Brazil that is in a class of it's own but it is often associated with rum. The difference is that cachaça is made from sugar cane juice where rum uses molasses.
Cachaça is made exclusively in Brazil and is very popular in that country where it is commonly referred to as "pinga" and was often thought a poor man's drink. Over recent years it has gained recognition internationally and the Caipirinha is the most popular drink made with this spirit and is Brazil's national drink. To celebrate cachaça June 12th has been designated as International Cachaça Day.
Cachaca Cocktails:
- Aman Snow Leopard
- Bahama Breeze Caipirinha
- Brazilian Rose
- Brazilian Sangria
- Café Brasileiro
- Caipirinha
- Caipirini
- Ginger Mary
- Homecoming Caipirinha
- Kumquat-Ginger Caipirinha
- Maça Martini
- Paulista
- Raspberry Beillini
- Raspberry Caipirinha
- Rhyme & Reason
- Spiced Pear Caipirini
- Tymello Caipirinha
I also like to use cachaça in place of rum in many of the popular rum cocktails.
Brands of Cachaca:
There are many brands of cachaça produced, however the majority are not available in the international market. This list is just a few that are available, but if you travel to Brazil you will want to check out the selection there and stop by a cachaçaria or two to sample the variety of cachaças.
- Agua Luca
- Aroma Brasil
- Boca Loca (on their website you will find a fantastic and detailed history of cachaca - DrinkBocaLoca.com)
- Cabana Cachaca
- Leblon
- Pirapora
- Pirassunga 1921
- Rio-D
- Sagatiba Pura
- Ypioca
