Harmonie Schnapps Four-Wood Blend

Distillery: Harmonie Schnapps

Location: Harmonie, Rio Grande do Sul

Aged: Yes

Type of Wood(s): Oak, Grapia, Louro, and Cabreuva (Balsamo)

ABV: 38%

Anyone who has read this blog for a while knows that I’m a fan of the Harmonie Schnapps Distillery for many reasons, not least of which is that they produce some pretty good cachaça. I picked this particular bottle up as part of cachaçaria Nacional’s monthly club. This particular cachaça is heavily awarded, both abroad and here, so I knew, before I tasted it that it was something special.

The amber liquid sits nicely in the glass, and clings to it. The nose is heavy. Lots of Grapia and Balsamo. I don’t know what Louro smells like, but I can certainly say that there isn’t a lot of oak in this blend. I put a few drops of water in to open it up a bit, and boy did it open up.

The palate is heavy like the nose. Even opened up with the water, it’s a swirl of heavy flavors. It’s one of those cachaças that makes you think. You can’t consume this without sitting down and considering what you’re consuming. Let’s call it an intellectual cachaça.

I’d liken this cachaça to an overly firm handshake. If you can get past the first moment of being uncomfortable, you can see that it’s just trying to show you how tough it is. Indeed, it’s not for a first timer. This is a liquor for an experienced spirits consumer. Still, it’s something of a work of art. It’s brave. And I can see why it would be rewarded by people who like interesting spirits. It’s nothing if not interesting.

So, yes, if you like interesting spirits, definitely pick this one up. If you’re a casual drinker, you’re likely not to appreciate the finer points and won’t get the harsh flavors. Overall, I’d say this is a very good cachaça, one that should be in every serious drinker’s bar.