Cachaca

Cachaça is a traditional Brazilian spirit distilled from fresh sugarcane juice, not molasses like most rums. It is Brazil’s national spirit and has been produced there since the 16th century. Cachaça is used in cocktails, especially the famous Caipirinha, and is also enjoyed neat or aged.

Cachaça has a bright, grassy, and slightly fruity flavour, with earthy undertones from the sugarcane. Unaged (white) cachaça is typically sharper and more vegetal, while aged (gold) cachaça develops notes of vanilla, spice, and wood from time spent in barrels made from native Brazilian woods like amburana or balsam.

No, although both are sugarcane spirits, cachaça is made from fresh sugarcane juice, while rum is usually made from molasses, a by-product of sugar production. This difference gives cachaça a more herbaceous and vibrant profile compared to the richer, sweeter taste of rum.

Cachaça is most famously used in the Caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail, made with lime, sugar, and ice. It also works well in tropical drinks, punches, and modern twists on classic cocktails like the Mojito or Daiquiri.