The business of the traditional drink from the island of Madeira is currently facing difficulties, with the price of sugar cane brandy rising from 9 to 21 euros.

Created by the fishermen of Câmara de Lobos, poncha has long become a hallmark of Madeiran culture. Made with 50-degree brandy in various flavours, it is still said today to cure almost anything.

Its fame has brought important visitors to the Sons of the Sea, from the President of the Republic to Cristiano Ronaldo, but the business is facing problems.

The price of the brandy, made from sugar cane, has risen from 9 to 21 euros.

What was typical of Câmara de Lobos has crossed the borders of the municipality, and Madeira is now full of poncha bars, where groups of tourists arrive every afternoon to try a variation or the original version.

Tourists initially find it strange, saying it’s strong, before giving in and trying all the variations, including those made with passion fruit or tangerine.

In the end, the experience tells that visiting Madeira and not drinking at least one poncha is to miss out on a part of what it means to be and live as a Madeiran.