Aguardiente

Aguardiente is a generic Spanish term meaning "burning water" or firewater. It refers to high-proof fruit-based spirits in Spain and Latin America.

Different regions produce their own styles of aguardiente from local ingredients:

• Spain - Aguardientes are made from grapes or berries and anise-flavored.
• Mexico - Can be made from sugarcane or fruit. Includes drinks like charanda.
• Colombia - Aguardiente is made from sugarcane and known as guaro.
• Peru - Often refers to pomace brandy like pisco.
• Brazil - Cachaça can be referred to as aguardente de cana.

Aguardientes are double distilled in column stills to produce a clear, high-alcohol spirit. They may be aged briefly in wood barrels before bottling.

Popular applications include:

• Sipping straight, usually chilled
• Adding to fruit juice or coffee
• Cocktail bases like the Colombian Agualoa

With a strong alcohol punch tempered by fruit and spice notes, aguardiente brings a festive flair to drinking culture across Spain and Latin America.