Cachaça

Cachaça is a distilled spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice. It originated in Brazil during the 1500s.

Cachaça is produced by pressing fresh sugarcane to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented and distilled into a clear, high-proof spirit. It has an alcohol content between 38-48% ABV.

Traditionally, cachaça is unaged and bottled immediately after distilling. Some premium cachaças are aged in wood barrels to add smoothness and complexity.

Cachaça is the key ingredient in Brazil's national cocktail, the caipirinha. It is also enjoyed neat, on the rocks, and in other cocktails like the Batida mixed with fruit juice.

While sometimes referred to as Brazilian rum, cachaça is distilled from sugarcane juice while rum uses molasses or syrup. Cachaça has a characteristic grassy, vegetal flavor when unaged due to compounds from the sugarcane.

Industrial cachaça dominates the market, but artisanal distilleries create premium bottlings showcasing terroir. When sipped properly, it offers a distinctive taste of Brazil through the sugarcane.