After the Madeira wine, “poncha” is the most popular drink on the Island.
This regional drink is made with rum obtained by fermentation and distillation of sugarcane juice produced in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
During a visit to Madeira, you can try this drink. You can surely find it in bars and restaurants scattered all over the Island. However, there are emblematic places, such as Serra D’Água, Câmara de Lobos, Poiso, Ribeiro Frio or in the old town of Funchal.
Poncha: The Spirited Soul of Madeira
Beyond the world-renowned Madeira wine, there lies another local beverage that truly captures the island’s spirit: “poncha.” This beloved regional drink is a potent and flavorful concoction with a rum base, crafted from the fermented and distilled juice of sugarcane grown in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
No trip to Madeira is complete without indulging in this iconic drink. You’ll find it readily available in bars and restaurants across the island, but for a truly authentic experience, venture to the emblematic locales of Serra D’Água, Câmara de Lobos, Poiso, Ribeiro Frio, or wander through the charming old town of Funchal.
A Sip of History and Tradition
Here are some fascinating facts about Madeira’s treasured “poncha”:
- The Classic Recipe: The traditional “poncha” is a simple yet perfect blend of rum (often called sugarcane brandy), fresh lemon juice, and honey. Over time, creative variations have emerged, incorporating the vibrant flavors of local fruits like passion fruit, tangerine, or orange.
- A Sailor’s Remedy: The origins of “poncha” may trace back to the 16th century. To combat scurvy during long sea voyages, explorers would carry lemons for their vitamin C. To preserve the fruit, they submerged it in sugarcane brandy and blackstrap molasses, both readily produced in Madeira. This practical solution is believed to have been the precursor to the “poncha” we enjoy today.
- The Fisherman’s Twist: A popular variation, known as the “fisherman’s poncha,” substitutes sugar for honey, offering a slightly different, yet equally delightful, sweetness.
- The Essential Tool: A specific wooden muddler, known as the “mexelote,” “mexilhote,” or “pau da poncha,” is traditionally used to mix the ingredients, ensuring a perfectly blended drink.
- The “Sugarcane Brandy Island”: Madeira’s history with rum production spans over 500 years. The island’s consumption of this spirit was so significant that a legislative diploma once officially nicknamed it the “sugarcane brandy island.”
Experience the Craft
To delve deeper into the heart of “poncha” production, consider visiting these historic distilleries:
- Engenhos da Calheta: Located on the west coast, the Society of Engenhos da Calheta offers a fascinating journey into the history of sugarcane production on the island. Their tasting room and “Adega Bar” provide the perfect opportunity to sample molasses cookies, blackstrap molasses cake, and, of course, authentic “poncha.”
- Companhia dos Engenhos do Norte: In Porto da Cruz, you can step back in time to 1927. This distillery still produces rum using its original processes and machinery from the industrial age. From March to May, you can take a guided tour to see the equipment in action and taste the popular “Branca” rum.
Perfect Pairings and a Local Saying
“Poncha” is often enjoyed with savory snacks like peanuts, lupins, or “dentinhos” – small tapas that might include fava beans, tuna with onions, skipjack, or cubes of pork marinated in wine and garlic.
There’s a popular Madeiran expression: “Bebe uma poncha que isso passa!” which translates to “Drink a ‘poncha’ and it will pass!” This phrase encapsulates the local belief that this powerful drink can cure all ills, especially colds and flu.
So, come and discover the traditions of Madeira. Come and taste our “poncha.” It’s delicious… but remember to drink responsibly and in moderation.
