Prepare the lime and sugar: Place the lime wedges into a sturdy old-fashioned glass. Add the sugar over the lime wedges.

Muddle gently: Using a muddler, gently press down and twist on the lime wedges to release their juice and essential oils. Be careful not to over-muddle, as this can release bitterness from the pith.

Add cachaça: Pour the cachaça into the glass over the muddled lime and sugar.

Add ice and stir: Fill the glass generously with crushed ice. Stir well with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients and chill the drink thoroughly.

Serve immediately: Garnish with a lime wheel if desired and serve right away.