The Caipi de Uva is a fruity variation of the classic Caipirinha, where blue grapes take center stage instead of limes. The white Rum brings a slight sweetness that perfectly balances the acidity of the grapes. A drink that impresses with its simplicity – but only if the grapes are crushed properly. Not a mixed drink for the impatient, but for connoisseurs who value texture. Ideal for warm evenings or as a refreshing start to the evening.
And here’s what you need for the Caipi de Uva
10 seedless blue grapes (approx. 80 g)
2 heaped barspoons of white raw cane sugar (approx. 15 g)
6 cl white Rum
2 cl freshly squeezed lime juice
crushed ice (approx. 200 g)
The key to success
The trick lies in crushing: many people crush the grapes too hard, extracting bitter compounds from the skins. It’s better to lightly press them until the juice is released. If you like, you can halve the grapes beforehand – this makes it easier to work with the pestle. It’s also important to choose the right ice: crushed ice cools faster and dilutes the drink less than cubes. If you don’t have an ice crusher, you can wrap ice cubes in a kitchen towel and crush them with a meat mallet.
Variations
- Caipi de Uva with Cachaça — Replace the white Rum with 6 cl Cachaça. The Brazilian sugarcane spirit gives the drink more body and a slightly grassy note. Make sure the grapes are particularly ripe, as Cachaça brings less sweetness than Rum.
- Caipi de Uva with raisins — Add 5–6 dried raisins to the grapes in the Tumbler. The raisins soften in the sugar and add an extra sweetness. Works well with brown Rum, which emphasizes the raisin flavors with its caramel notes.
- Caipi de Uva with mint — Add 4–5 fresh mint leaves, which you lightly tap with the sugar before crushing. The mint gives the drink a fresh, aromatic component. It especially harmonizes with a light white Rum or Cachaça.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use other types of grapes?
Yes, but blue grapes are ideal because they have a balanced sweetness and acidity. Red grapes can be too sweet, green ones too sour. It’s important that the grapes are seedless and ripe – unripe grapes make the drink tart.
Why does the ice need to be crushed?
Crushed ice has a larger surface area and cools the drink faster without diluting it too much. Cubed ice would take longer and produce more meltwater, which would dilute the flavor.
Can I replace the sugar with simple syrup?
Yes, but then you’ll lose the texture that the raw cane sugar creates when crushed. If you use syrup, take 1.5 cl and add it only after crushing the grapes. The drink will then be smoother, but less complex.
How long can I store the prepared grapes?
Best not at all. The grapes oxidize quickly and lose their aroma. If you must prepare them in advance, wash and dry them, but only crush or cut them shortly before mixing.
