Caipirinha

Instructions

1. Wash the lime thoroughly. Cut off the ends and slice it into 4 to 8 wedges.

2. Place the lime wedges and sugar into a sturdy lowball glass.

3. Muddle gently with a muddler, pressing just enough to release the lime juice and essential oils from the peel, while dissolving the sugar. Avoid over-muddling the white pith, which can make the drink bitter.

4. Fill the glass generously with crushed ice.

5. Pour the cachaça over the ice and lime mixture.

6. Stir well from the bottom up to ensure the sugar, lime, and cachaça are fully combined.

7. Optionally, garnish with an extra lime wedge or slice.

Trivia

• What is a Caipirinha?

  A Caipirinha is the national cocktail of Brazil. It's a simple yet delicious drink made primarily from cachaça (a Brazilian spirit distilled from fermented sugarcane juice), fresh lime, and sugar. It's traditionally served in a lowball glass with crushed ice.

• What does a Caipirinha taste like?

  A Caipirinha offers a vibrant and refreshing taste profile. It's characterized by a balance between the tartness of the fresh lime juice, the sweetness of the sugar, and the distinct, slightly grassy or funky flavour of the cachaça. It's citrusy, sweet, and potent.

• What is Cachaça and how is it different from Rum?

  Cachaça is a Brazilian spirit made exclusively from fresh sugarcane juice, which is then fermented and distilled. While rum can be made from either sugarcane juice or molasses, cachaça *must* be made from fresh juice and must be produced in Brazil. This often gives cachaça a grassier, more vegetal, and sometimes funkier flavour profile compared to many rums.

• Can I substitute Cachaça in a Caipirinha?

  While the traditional Caipirinha specifically uses cachaça, you can make variations with other spirits. Using vodka creates a 'Caipiroska', using white rum makes a 'Caipirissima', and using sake results in a 'Sakerinha'. However, substituting the spirit fundamentally changes the cocktail's character and name.

• What is the best type of sugar for a Caipirinha?

  Traditionally, fine or superfine white granulated sugar is used in Caipirinhas as it dissolves easily when muddled with the lime. Some prefer using raw or demerara sugar for a slightly richer, molasses-like flavour note. Avoid powdered sugar, as it can clump, or large crystals that won't dissolve properly.

• How do you properly muddle lime for a Caipirinha?

  Proper muddling is key. Place lime wedges and sugar in the glass. Press down gently with the muddler and twist slightly, just enough to release the juice and fragrant oils from the peel. Do not pulverize the limes or press too hard on the white pith, as this releases bitterness and can ruin the drink's balance.