How many lime wedges are used in a Caipirinha?

How many lime wedges are used in a Caipirinha?

• A. 4
• B. 6
• C. 8
• D. 10

Answer: (B)

In a Caipirinha, you want the lime flavor to come through with bright citrus oils and juice, without being overwhelmed by bitterness from the rind. Muddling lime with sugar releases those oils from the rind and the juice from the flesh, so surface area matters. About six lime wedges give enough surface to extract a lively lime aroma and juice while still leaving room in the glass for ice and the cachaça, keeping the drink balanced. If you used fewer wedges, the lime flavor can be too subtle; use more than six and you risk extracting too much rind bitterness and crowding the glass. So six wedges is a practical, balanced choice for a standard Caipirinha.

In a Caipirinha, you want the lime flavor to come through with bright citrus oils and juice, without being overwhelmed by bitterness from the rind. Muddling lime with sugar releases those oils from the rind and the juice from the flesh, so surface area matters. About six lime wedges give enough surface to extract a lively lime aroma and juice while still leaving room in the glass for ice and the cachaça, keeping the drink balanced. If you used fewer wedges, the lime flavor can be too subtle; use more than six and you risk extracting too much rind bitterness and crowding the glass. So six wedges is a practical, balanced choice for a standard Caipirinha.