A clear sugarcane spirit drunk in shots with lime and salt, distilled by the state-owned Fábrica Nacional de Licores, which was founded in 1853 to bring cane spirits under control. Its Cacique brand is Costa Rica’s national drink.
It is a state monopoly’s product, and distilling spirits without a licence is a criminal offence in Costa Rica as elsewhere.
What goes into it
- sugarcane molasses
- yeast
- water
How it is made
Molasses is fermented and then distilled in column stills to a high-proof, near-neutral spirit, filtered and diluted to bottling strength. It is deliberately clean and light, with no ageing, which is why it disappears into mixers.
How long it takes: days to ferment; no ageing
How it is eaten
In shots with lime and salt, or in a guaro sour with cola or fruit juice.
History
Distilled by the state-owned Fabrica Nacional de Licores, founded in 1853 to control cane spirits; its Cacique brand is Costa Rica’s national drink.
Frequently asked questions
What is Guaro?
Guaro is a wine & spirit from Costa Rica: clear sugarcane spirit drunk in shots with lime and salt. Distilled by the state-owned Fabrica Nacional de Licores, founded in 1853 to control cane spirits; its Cacique brand is Costa Rica’s national drink.
How is Guaro made?
Molasses is fermented and then distilled in column stills to a high-proof, near-neutral spirit, filtered and diluted to bottling strength. It is deliberately clean and light, with no ageing, which is why it disappears into mixers. It takes days to ferment; no ageing.
Can I make Guaro at home?
No, and the atlas gives no method for it. It is a state monopoly’s product, and distilling spirits without a licence is a criminal offence in Costa Rica as elsewhere.
What goes into Guaro?
Sugarcane molasses, yeast, water.
How is Guaro eaten?
In shots with lime and salt, or in a guaro sour with cola or fruit juice.
