Refreshing Madeira Mélange

This cocktail, known as Poncha Regional, is a traditional staple of Madeira. It features a frothy mix of chilled white rhum agricole, fresh-squeezed orange and lemon juice, sugar, and honey, resulting in a refreshing and vibrant drink. The combination of tart and fragrant flavors makes it a delightful choice for a sunny day or a relaxing evening.

Refreshing Madeira Mélange

A traditional Madeiran cocktail with a frothy mix of rhum agricole, orange and lemon juice, sugar, and honey, creating a refreshing and vibrant drink.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lemon peels (around 3 grams total)
  • 1/2 teaspoon white sugar
  • Just under 1 1/2 ounces chilled white rhum agricole
  • Just under 1 1/2 ounces chilled fresh-squeezed orange juice
  • 1 ounce chilled fresh-squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey

Instructions

  1. In a heavy pint glass, muddle the lemon peel and sugar until a uniform paste is formed.
  2. Add the chilled rhum agricole, lemon juice, orange juice, and honey to the glass.
  3. Use a caralhinho or wooden spoon to integrate the ingredients and create a frothy mixture by spinning it between your palms.
  4. Adjust the sweetness and tartness by adding more lemon juice or honey if necessary.
  5. Strain the mixture through a sieve into a small stemmed glass or alternatively, over ice into a tall glass.