sublime summer refreshment1

by Liz Rothaus Bertrand

In case you haven’t noticed, it’s hotter than heck outside. With temperatures sizzling in the mid-90s all week here in the Carolinas and being just days away from the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, it seems like the perfect time to cool off with this cocktail recipe from Portuguese language instructor Lee Cobbs. A native Brazilian, this is Cobb’s take on her home country’s legendary drink, the caipirinha (“kai-pee-reen-ya”).

Caipirinha recipe

1/2 a Lime, sliced

2 TBS of Sugar

2 Strawberries (optional)

Muddle Well

Add 1 cup of ice

1 shot of Cachaça (the Brazilian liquor made from sugar cane. Not rum.)

Shake well. Add a splash of soda water if desired.

Note: Cobb says that vodka can be used as a substitute for Cachaça, if you’re in a bind. However, a quick internet search shows the Brazilian liquor is widely available in local Charlotte liquor stores.

Saúde! (Cheers!)


Portuguese is one of seven languages taught at The Language Academy of the Carolinas, Charlotte’s premiere language services company. Translation, interpreting, and private classes also available.