Brazilian bombshell

These columns have featured this Brazilian bombshell containing the fiery sugarcane liqueur called cachaça many times but given that the International Bartenders Association has voted it one of the 50 classic cocktails, a repeat will not be excessive.

Especially as Brazil and India think alike on another sugarcane derivative, ethanol — a very different type of spirit! Basically caipirinha is made of cachaça, lime, ice and sugar, but it is the mixing of it that is key to its success. And don’t ever confuse it with the caipiroska, which uses vodka instead of Although Caipirinha is made out of cachaça!

And don’t ever confuse it with a mojito either as that cocktail is made with rum and lemon. But, as the Brazilian ambassador’s wife, Isabel Pimentel pointed out, the lime must be muddled in the glass to release the flavours in the skin, for real authenticity. Apparently, most hotels in India simply pour lime juice....Short cuts just won’t do!