Cachaça
With Cachaça you can make
Bitter Bull
Watermelon Caipirinha
Caipirinha
Marmalade Sour
Rabo-de-Galo
Brazilian Crush
Berry Caipirinha
Lemon Garden Fizz
S.a.b.i Martini
Pumpkin Caipirinha
We've got 18 cocktails that can be made with Cachaça.
Find out what to make with Cachaça
Q&A
What is the history and origin of Cachaça?
Cachaça is a Brazilian distilled spirit that traces its origins back to the 16th century, making it one of the oldest spirits in the Americas. Initially produced by slaves on sugarcane plantations, it was distilled from the fermented juice of sugarcane, a process that provided a rudimentary form of alcohol. Over time, cachaça evolved from a drink of the lower classes to a beloved national spirit, deeply intertwined with Brazilian culture and history. Its production techniques have been refined, and today, cachaça is recognized globally, with Brazil officially declaring it as the country's national spirit.
What makes Cachaça different from rum?
The crucial difference between cachaça and rum lies in the raw material used for their production. While rum is typically made from molasses, a byproduct of sugar production, cachaça is distilled from fresh, fermented sugarcane juice. This results in cachaça having a fresher, more grassy flavor profile in comparison to the often sweeter taste of molasses-based rums. Additionally, cachaça is predominantly produced in Brazil and is subject to specific distillation processes, while rum is produced in various countries around the world.
How do you properly mix a Caipirinha using Cachaça?
To mix a traditional Caipirinha, you need a few simple ingredients: cachaça, fresh lime, sugar, and ice. Start by cutting a lime into wedges and muddling it with sugar in a glass to release the lime's juice and essential oils. Then, fill the glass with ice and add 2 ounces of cachaça. Stir the mixture well to combine the flavors and dissolve the sugar properly. Adjust the sweetness to taste by adding more sugar if needed. The result should be a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that perfectly showcases the vibrant character of cachaça.
What are some other cocktails that can be made with Cachaça?
Beyond the classic Caipirinha, cachaça serves as a versatile base for a variety of cocktails. A Batida combines cachaça with fruit juice, sugar, and condensed milk, creating a creamy, tropical drink. The Rabo-de-galo is a Brazilian twist on the Negroni, using cachaça instead of gin. For a refreshing fizzy option, the Cachaça Fizz blends cachaça, lime juice, sugar, and soda water. And for those who enjoy bold flavors, the Cachaça Manhattan swaps out whiskey for cachaça, mixed with sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters.
Why is Cachaça considered important to Brazilian culture?
Cachaça is more than just a spirit in Brazil; it's regarded as a symbol of national pride and cultural heritage. Its deep roots in the country's history, starting from its colonial times to becoming Brazil's national drink, illustrate its importance. Cachaça has played a role in social gatherings, historical events, and has even influenced music, literature, and politics. Celebrations like Cachaça Day on September 13th highlight its cultural significance. Artisanal cachaça production, with its diverse regional methods and flavors, further underscores its role as a celebration of Brazilian identity and craftsmanship.
Cachaça Brands
How it works
Easily create your bar from the ingredients you have at home, and we'll show you what you can make with the ingredients you have to hand.
Once you've added this ingredient head to your My bar page and fill up everything else you have.
We'll also show you cocktails that can make by substituting what you have for one of the ingredients you don't, riffing on the original. Now go forth and create something delicious!