Cocktails with Brandy
Brandy is a spirit distilled from wine or fermented fruit juice. While cognac is the most famous, brandies are produced worldwide with varying character.
No Brandy? What to use instead
- Type
- Spirit
- Strength
- 36–45% ABV
- Aroma
- Grape, Oak, Vanilla, Dried fruit
- Taste
- Fruity, Warm, Oak, Sweet
- Finish
- Warming, Fruit, Medium to long
8 drinks with Brandy
- Easy SangriaRed Wine, Triple Sec, Orange Juice
- Fog CutterWhite Rum, Gin, Orange Juice
- Horse's NeckGinger Ale, Angostura Bitters
- Picon PunchAmer Picon, Grenadine, Soda Water
- Porto FlipPort Wine, Egg Yolk
- Presidente MargaritaTequila Añejo, Triple Sec, Sour Mix
- Sangria SlushRed Wine, Orange Juice, Lemon Juice
- ScorpionWhite Rum, Orange Juice, Lemon Juice
History
Brandy derives from the Dutch 'brandewijn' (burnt wine), referring to distillation. It has been produced since the 12th century to preserve wine and reduce shipping volume. Spanish, Italian, and American brandies offer alternatives to French cognac.
How it’s made
Wine is distilled in pot or column stills and typically aged in oak barrels. The base wine is usually thin and acidic, ideal for distillation. Aging develops complexity, with younger brandies used for mixing and older expressions for sipping.
Bottles to try
Torres 10Budget
Spanish brandy aged in American oak, smooth with vanilla and dried fruit.
St-Rémy VSOPBudget
French brandy with good value, balanced fruit and oak character.
Cardenal MendozaMid-range
Spanish solera brandy with rich sherry influence, complex and smooth.
Got Brandy at home?
Add it to your bar in Proof and see every drink you can make with the bottles you already have.