Surprising finds: Delicious and unexpected cocktail ideas courtesy of Brazil

(BPT) – Are you on the lookout for fresh new drinks to enjoy while taking advantage of some of the last long evenings of summer and early fall? As part of this year’s search for the next trending drink of choice, many have turned to an unlikely source for its refreshing and fruity beverages that pair perfectly with your favorite meals: Brazil.Brazil’s mastery in the beverage market is nothing new. Brazil has cultivated a long history in wine and spirits, which has allowed Brazilian drink makers to create a diverse menu of flavorful cocktails that are unlike anything else found around the world. Just consider that today, the country is home to more than 1,100 wineries that produce more than 750,000 tons of grapes annually — which are exported to 50 global markets. What’s more, Cachaça, the favorite spirit of the country, is the third most consumed distilled spirit in the world.“Whether you’re looking for an exciting new wine or spirit to add to your collection, or searching for fresh, delicious juice with bright flavors, Brazil is a great place from which anyone can draw inspiration,” said Alberto Carlos Bicca, Agribusiness Coordinator for ApexBrasil, the Brazilian trade and investment promotion agency.Interested in making your own Brazilian-style drink? Here are a few recipes and pairings you can try:Recipe: CaipirinhaWhen it comes to cocktails, Brazil’s rich cultural traditions have contributed to the creation of unique beverages. In fact, Caipirinha, the country’s national cocktail, has become popular in recent years for its refreshing and citrus-forward flavors that pair well with American appetizer favorites like chips, salsa and guacamole.Ingredients: Cachaça (white or aged)LimeSugarIceSteps: Put the slices of 1 lime in a small glass and add 1-2 teaspoons of sugar.With a pestle, press firmly on the lime and twist, releasing the juice.Fill the glass with ice and pour in 70-75 ML of Cachaça.Pairing: Brazilian red wines and steakBrazil is best known for a diverse range of sparkling white and rose wines, but the country’s red offerings are not to be overlooked. In fact, Brazilian red wine is sturdy enough to support the richest steak course without drowning out the complex flavors of modern Brazilian fare.Accordingly, the next time you put steak on the grill, consider pairing it with a Brazilian red.Pairing: Wine: Miolo Wine Group – Lote 43. This blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon is bold and complex, filled with black fruits, tobacco and earthy aromas.Pair the steak with creamy rice and beans, and a biquinho pepper and red onion puree.Recipe: Brazilian SpritzThe “Aperol Spritz” may take its origins from Italy, but Brazil has its own twist on this classic — using the stellar selection of sparkling white and rosé wines from the country’s lush vineyards. The resulting cocktail is a light and refreshing drink that truly captures the cheerful spirit of Brazil, all while featuring Brazilian sparkling wine that has been quality tested by critics in international competitions.Ingredients: Aperol liquorBrazilian sparkling wine (suggestion: Garibaldi Cooperativa Vinícola’s Amaze – Brut Chardonnay Sparkling Wine)Sparkling water1 orangeSteps: In a large glass, add ice, equal parts Aperol and sparkling wine.Top with a splash of sparkling water.Add 1 slice of orange to rim.To learn more about Brazilian cocktails and wines, visit: Taste Brasil and Wines of Brazil.