With over 100 different brands of the national hard stuff on the shelves, anybody after something a little more classy than half a pint of '51' with a pound of sugar on the street corner would do well to hunt out Cachaça Esporte Clube. On the infamous Rua Riachuelo in the heart of the Lapa action, there are few better excuses for parking up at a table by the huge windows onto the street than trying out a couple of rare and artisanal aguardientes, and even if you're still not sure that its the drop for you, give one of the fruity varieties a chance, or the honeyed version. Perfect with a cold chopp to chase the fire away.