Cachaa is a distilled spirit unique to Brazil that is
made from fresh pressed sugarcane. Originally
thought to be invented in the 1600's by Brazilian
slaves, cachaa was believed to relieve weariness
and to increase vigor. Indeed, the caiprinha and
other cachaa based drinks fuel nightclubs from Rio
to Ibiza all night long. The passion and sensual allure
of Brazilian cachaa is undeniable.
Much like wine, the flavor of cachaa is determined
by the Brazilian climate, the soil and the aging
process. Different regions of Brazil will produce
cachaas of completely different tastes. At present
it is estimated that Brazil has well over 4,000
cachaa distilleries and produces 1.2 billion liters per
year.
While many Latin American countries also produce a
distilled spirit from fresh sugar cane
called "Aguardente", this is where the similarity with
cachaa ends. "Aguardente", which means "burning
water", is known (and justly named) because of the
sharp sting on the tongue and the fiery hangovers
from this rough spirit. Not so with cachaa, which
smooth, mellow in flavor and possessing a wonderful
aroma of freshly cut sugar cane.
Of course the quality of cachaa will depend on the
brand. To judge the quality of your favorite cachaa
use the following tests, just as a Brazilian cachaa
connoisseur would:
- Hold the bottle up to the light. Quality cachaa is
clear and without impurities.
- Shake the bottle. The froth and bubbles should
disappear in less than 30 seconds.
- (This one is tricky unless you can try it before
you buy) When poured slowly down the sides of a
glass, it should appear like fine oil.
- Check the aroma of the cachaa in a glass or on
the palm of your hand. If it does not smell like sugar
cane, it probably is not a good cachaa.
- Request to taste the cachaa before you buy it.
If you sense a burning sensation in your mouth or on
the back of your throat, it is of poor quality.
Once you have found a good cachaa, experiment
with it! Highly mixable, it is delicious with fresh fruit
juices and perfect for creating tropical frozen drinks.
appealing.