Brazillians have been making cachaca, the liquor that's the base of their national drink the caipirinha, for 400 years.

Brazil is South America's largest country, spanning almost half the continent, so it's national liquor has to be as big, too. Cachaca (KA SHA SA), a fiery Brazilian brandy that's a cross between tequila and rum, fits the bill. It's also the base ingredient of the Brazilian national cocktail, caipirinha (KIE-PUR-REEN-YAH.)

Brazil produces one billion liters of Cachaca a year, and there are more than 4,000 different brands. Due to the liquor's increased popularity, export markets are on the rise. You can now find Cachaca all over the world.

To judge Cachaca, hold the bottle up to the light. If it's good quality, it will look clear and free of impurities. It will also leave an oily film, called legs, on the side of the glass after you've had a sip.

You can drink Cachaca on its own, but it's better in cocktails. Cachaca makes a nice substitute of tequila in margaritas or rum in daiquiris.

Make your own Caipirinha with our recipe.

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