This unknown Brazilian drink that will soon dethrone your favorite rum!
We bet you think you know all the secrets of rum, but have you ever heard of cachaça? Yes, this Brazilian spirit that is often associated with the famous caipirinha. It’s not just a simple sugarcane alcohol. It’s much more than that, and soon, rum lovers like you might fall under the spell of this multifaceted drink. What if I told you it could even surpass your favorite rum?
Cachaça, the soul of Brazil in your glass
Cachaça is the soul of Brazil. If samba and Rio’s carnival evoke partying and joy, cachaça also embodies this Brazilian identity just as much. Distilled from pure sugarcane juice, like agricultural rum, it has long been underestimated. But today, things are changing. Bartenders around the world are starting to take a serious interest in it, especially for its aged versions that benefit from rare wood essences from the Amazon rainforest. A true hidden treasure!
Why you should be interested?
First of all, you need to know that artisanal cachaça and low-quality cachaça are two different worlds. Want the good stuff? Then opt for the artisanal version, often produced in small quantities and with great care. Unlike some industrial rums, artisanal cachaça stands out for its subtler aromas and versatility.
- In cocktails or for sipping? No need to choose! Cachaça can be enjoyed both in cocktails in its white version (caipirinha is a must), and for sipping when aged.
- A unique range of aromas: Due to its aging in various wood barrels (from the Amazon, no less!), cachaça ages with an unparalleled range of flavors. Each wood essence brings its own nuances, from balsamic hints to more complex aromas.
Aging, the asset of cachaça
What makes cachaça truly special is its aging process. Unlike rum, which mostly ages in oak barrels, cachaça has the opportunity to use barrels of various wood essences, including those from the Amazon rainforest. And let me tell you, it makes all the difference!
Some cachaças are aged in woods like balsamo, which bring quite pronounced balsamic flavors. But be careful, don’t let them age too long, or the medicinal notes will take over (and no one wants a syrupy taste in their glass, right?).
| Wood Type Used | Flavors Added |
|---|---|
| Balsamo | Balsamic, herbaceous |
| Amburana | Sweet, spicy |
| Jequitibá | Light, floral |
These woods give cachaça an incomparable aromatic richness, rarely found in rum. That’s why rum enthusiasts are starting to take more and more interest in it.
A booming market
What is fascinating about cachaça is that 99% of the annual production (which amounts to one billion liters) is consumed in Brazil. In other words, the rest of the world still has a lot to discover! But good news, the United States, Germany, and Italy are already importing more and more artisanal cachaças.
Wondering why this drink could soon surpass rum on bar menus? It’s simple. The international market is opening up to the multiple Brazilian terroirs, each offering unique aromatic profiles. In Paraty, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, flavorful cachaças are produced. While in the Northeast, in Paraiba, cachaças are more intense, perfect for thrill-seeking enthusiasts.
Caipirinha: a classic to revisit
If you’ve never tasted a caipirinha, now might be the time to try. And if you’ve already had one, I challenge you to try it with an aged cachaça. You’ll see, it changes everything!
Here’s a simple recipe to impress your friends at your next party:
- Cut a lime into small pieces.
- Add 2 tablespoons of sugar (more if you have a sweet tooth).
- Mash it all in a glass.
- Fill with crushed ice and 60 ml of cachaça.
- Mix well and enjoy!
An underrated spirit to explore
Cachaça has everything to please rum enthusiasts. It’s exotic, surprising, and offers a multitude of flavors thanks to its unique manufacturing process. For bartenders, it’s a limitless playground. For the curious, it’s an invitation to discover flavors they’ve never explored before.
So, ready to embark on a journey through Brazilian flavors? Indulge in artisanal cachaça, and who knows, maybe your old favorite rum will stay on the shelf next time you make a cocktail!
One last word
Do you want to be among the first to discover why cachaça is taking over the world? Then don’t hesitate to share this article with your friends and try this unique drink for yourself. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. And if you want to learn more about the best artisanal cachaças or find ideas for original cocktails, subscribe to our Facebook page.
Céline, a crêpe enthusiast, shares her recipes and tips on her blog dedicated to this culinary art. As a passionate blogger, she explores all aspects of crêpes, from traditional to innovative creations. Join her for delicious and inspiring culinary adventures!
