Stay in the loop! Subscribe to our newsletter at The Global Glug so you never miss an episode. What happens when the world’s third most-consumed spirit is still unknown to most drinkers outside its home country?
In this episode, I sit down with Leszek Wedzicha, founder of United Brazilian Distilleries and long-time advocate for artisanal Cachaça, to dive into the story behind Brazil’s most misunderstood spirit. From organizing the first-ever Cachaça Festival outside Brazil to traveling across the country in search of small, honest producers, Leszek shares his mission to bring high-quality Brazilian rum to the world — and the many cultural, legal, and marketing challenges that come with it.
We talk about terroir, native woods, regulations, sipping vs mixing, and why it’s so difficult to sell a product people can’t even pronounce. Plus, Leszek shares a few exciting releases — including a 35-year-old Cachaça aged in Balsam wood — and a surprising collaboration with Charanda producer Miriam in Mexico.
🎙️ Available now on all podcast platforms.
(00:00) Introduction to Cachaça and Leszek's Journey
(02:57) The Cachaça Festival and Its Impact
(05:56) Challenges of Finding Quality Cachaça Abroad
(08:49) Understanding Cachaça Regulations and Production
(11:23) The Unique Aging Process of Cachaça
(14:27) The Future of Cachaça in Global Markets
(16:58) Regional Variations and Influences in Cachaça Production
(19:52) The New Wave of Cachaça Producers
(22:40) Cachaça as a Premium Spirit
(25:31) Conclusion and Future Prospects for Cachaça
(31:59) Navigating Alcohol Tax Challenges in Europe
(33:58) Recognition and Protection of Cachaça in Europe
(35:23) Life in Manaus and Future Plans
(36:59) Exploring Unique Cachaça Products
(40:10) Collaborations and International Projects
(43:18) Upcoming Festivals and Events
(46:28) Expanding Beyond Brazilian Spirits
(47:11) The Passion Behind the Business
(49:18) Distribution Challenges in Europe
(53:38) The Cultural Connection to Cachaça
Popular Podcasts
Fudd Around And Find Out
UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd brings her championship swag to iHeart Women’s Sports with Fudd Around and Find Out, a weekly podcast that takes fans along for the ride as Azzi spends her final year of college trying to reclaim the National Championship and prepare to be a first round WNBA draft pick. Ever wonder what it’s like to be a world-class athlete in the public spotlight while still managing schoolwork, friendships and family time? It’s time to Fudd Around and Find Out!
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.