Classic Brazilian Caipirinha

Ingredients

• 8 oz (240ml) cachaça (approximately 2 oz per serving; ABV ~38-48%)
• 4 medium limes, each cut into 8 wedges
• 8 teaspoons white granulated sugar (2 teaspoons per serving)
• 4 cups crushed ice
• 4 lime wedges for garnish
• Optional non-alcoholic variation: 8 oz sparkling water or ginger beer in place of cachaça

Instructions

1. Wash and dry the limes thoroughly, then cut each lime into 8 small wedges, removing the white pithy center strip to reduce bitterness.
2. Place 8 lime wedges (from 1 lime) into an old-fashioned or rocks glass.
3. Add 2 teaspoons of white granulated sugar directly onto the lime wedges in the glass.
4. Using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, firmly muddle the lime wedges and sugar together for about 30 seconds until the juice is fully extracted and the sugar begins to dissolve — do not over-muddle or you will release bitter oils from the lime skin.
5. Fill the glass to the top with crushed ice.
6. Pour 2 oz (60ml) of cachaça over the ice.
7. Using a long spoon, stir vigorously for 20 to 30 seconds to combine and chill the drink thoroughly.
8. Garnish with a fresh lime wedge on the rim of the glass and serve immediately.
9. Repeat steps 2 through 8 for each of the remaining 3 servings.
10. Optional non-alcoholic variation: Replace the cachaça with 2 oz of sparkling water or ginger beer per glass, following the same muddling and assembly steps for a refreshing virgin version.