June 21, 2008
Sexiest Summer Sip :: Uber Chic Brazilian Cachaca
Katherine Dean READ TIME: 6 MIN.
Cousin to Rum, Cacha?a is derived from sugar cane (rum from molasses) and I find it has a wider range of sweeter flavors, more evocative of the cane itself. The mouth feel is a little thicker and more viscous, and at 80 proof, though it's alcohol content is equal to that of standard light rums, it may taste stronger then some of the rums you're used to.
Cacha?a has recently become widely available, which means that now you too can dress yourself in tiny clothes, and imagine yourself in Rio while sipping a Caipirinha the traditional Cacha?a quaff imbibed widely (and enthusiastically) throughout Brazil. These drinks are often considered communal, and passed around (when with family and friends of course) but once you get a taste of them you may be tempted to pour one of your very own.
Traditional Caipirinha
? lime in quarters
1 tbsp granulated sugar (superfine works best, but regular will do)
2 oz. Cachaca
Muddle limes with sugar in a short glass using a muddler (available at liquor stores and gourmet cooking stores). Fill with ice and add Cacha?a. Add more sugar, limes or booze to taste.
There are several quality brands of Cachaca available near you, all with very distinct flavors. I, alongside my friend's Brazilian husband, gave these all a good "research" and can guide you in your selection thusly....
Agua Luca
A favorite of mine, Agua Luca is sugary and woody on the nose, but soft and toasty, like marshmallow on the tongue. There's nothing syrupy here, just a crisp, clean sweetness. This is my favorite of the ones we tried to mix in sodas.
Check out www.agualuca.com for more cocktail ideas (like the Rio Mojito) and info.
Leblon
Leblon tastes and smells like honey, with hints of fruit and florals. My editor's favorite Cacha?a, it's very full on the nose and through the throat. My friend's husband named this one of the two brands that most reminded him of home and it makes a great Caipirinha.
Try muddling raspberries into the recipe for a tart twist.
Cabana
The most reminiscent of rum, Cabana was the second brand to remind our resident Brazilian of home. On the nose, I smell caramelized sugar, and on the tongue it tastes clean, almost like simple syrup. I had another volunteer claim it reminded him of vodka.
People sometimes substitute Cachaca for vodka (and vice versa) and I would choose Cabana for any kind of martini.
Cuca Fresca
Cuca Fresca offers both a light and dark bottle. The light has a fruity, almost syrupy taste - it reminded me of jam. The dark was more subtle and floral, with a toasted sugar and honey taste. I personally prefer the darker, aged version, but the light would be fab in anything you make with juices.
Sagatiba
Sagatiba is the most aggressive brand we tried. Rather than sugary, this one is woody on the nose and oaky on the tongue.
Sagatiba has the distinction of being a brand that supports social justice and environmental issues. Brand founder Marcos de Moraes serves on the board of many charitable organizations - championing Neuropsychoanalysis; sustainable, locally-based solutions to poverty; water conservation and communities developments.
Katherine Dean is first and foremost your favorite EDGE contributor and Assistant Editor in Grooming, but by day she is a Spanish Interpreter for the schools. She lives with one roommate (Sarah) and one demonic feline (O'Malley). She hopes one day to find fashionable shoes that are comfortable, a pony to ride to work and a cabana boy named Raul to do her biding.
