the origins of the caipirinha are believed to have come from a folk remedy of lemon, garlic, honey and cachaça, which was used to treat colds and flus.

eventually, somebody removed the garlic, swapped the honey for sugar, the lemon for limes, and added ice to give a refreshing touch  - and the caipirinha was born.

to make the cocktail properly, it is important that the correct ratios of limes, sugar, and cachaça are maintained, and that it is shaken well before serving - many baristas make of the preparation a show, for added entertainment.