Brandy is a versatile spirit used in various delicious cocktails. Whether you are a seasoned drinker or just looking to explore new flavors, brandy offers a range of options from sweet to strong.
Discover the rich, flavorful world of brandy cocktails, each with its own unique character and history. Get ready to indulge in some classic and modern mixes that will elevate your appreciation for this distinguished spirit.
1) Sidecar
The Sidecar is a classic brandy cocktail with a crisp, balanced taste. It features three main ingredients: Cognac, orange liqueur (like Cointreau), and fresh lemon juice.
To make a Sidecar, chill your cocktail glass by filling it with ice cubes and setting it aside. In a cocktail shaker, combine 1.75 oz Cognac, 0.75 oz Cointreau, and 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice. Add plenty of ice and shake well until the mixture is very cold.
If you like, you can prepare the glass with a sugar rim. Rub a lemon wedge around the rim, then dip it in sugar. Strain the drink into your prepared glass.
Garnish with a twist of orange for an elegant final touch. The result is a refreshing, slightly tart cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion.
2) Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a timeless cocktail. It blends cognac, dark crème de cacao, and cream. This simple mix creates a rich, creamy drink that is both luxurious and smooth.
To make a Brandy Alexander, start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add one ounce of cognac, one ounce of dark crème de cacao, and one ounce of cream. Shake the mixture well until it is chilled.
Once the mixture is well-chilled, strain it into a chilled cocktail glass. Traditionally, this drink is served in a coupe glass, but any cocktail glass will work. For the finishing touch, garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
The Brandy Alexander is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and creamy beverage. Its smooth texture and balanced flavors make it a favorite for special occasions or just a cozy night in.
3) Metropolitan
The Metropolitan cocktail is a classic brandy drink. It blends brandy, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, and grenadine. A dash of bitters adds complexity.
To make a Metropolitan, start by chilling your cocktail glass in the freezer. Gathering all ingredients close by will make the process smooth.
Begin with 1 1/2 ounces of brandy and 1/2 ounce of sweet vermouth. Add 1/4 ounce of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of grenadine, and a dash of bitters.
Shake the mixture with ice until well chilled. Then, strain it into your prepared glass. The result is a perfectly balanced drink that showcases the elegance of brandy.
4) Vieux Carré
The Vieux Carré is a classic cocktail from New Orleans, dating back to the 1930s. Its name means “Old Square,” referring to the French Quarter. This drink combines the bold flavors of rye whiskey and cognac with the sweetness of vermouth.
To make a Vieux Carré, start with a mixing glass filled with ice. Add equal parts rye whiskey, cognac, and sweet vermouth. Next, include a dash of Bénédictine liqueur and a few dashes of bitters for depth.
Stir the mixture until it’s well-chilled. Then strain it into an old-fashioned glass filled with fresh ice. For garnish, use a cherry or a twist of lemon or orange.
This cocktail has a rich, complex flavor profile. The spice from the rye and the smoothness of the cognac balance well with the sweetness of the vermouth and Bénédictine. It’s an elegant choice for any occasion.
5) Harvard
The Harvard is a classic cocktail that dates back to 1895. It is known for its rich, fruity flavors and smooth finish. This Manhattan-style drink features brandy, sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of Angostura bitters.
To make a Harvard, you start with equal parts brandy and sweet vermouth. Combine these in a mixing glass with ice. Stir gently to avoid over-diluting the drink.
After mixing, strain the contents into a cocktail glass. Top it off with a splash of soda water for a slight fizz. Finally, garnish with a maraschino cherry or an orange twist to add a touch of elegance.
This drink has longstanding roots and is a favorite among many for its balanced, sophisticated taste. The combination of brandy and sweet vermouth creates a perfect harmony of flavors, while the bitters add a hint of spice.
6) Pisco Sour
A Pisco Sour is a refreshing and tangy cocktail hailing from South America. This drink is most popular in Peru and Chile, both claiming the Pisco Sour as their own creation.
To make a Pisco Sour, you start with pisco, a type of brandy made from fermented grape juice. Combine pisco with fresh lime juice for a crisp citrus flavor.
Next, add simple syrup to sweeten the mix. The key ingredient is an egg white, which gives the cocktail its iconic frothy texture. Shake it all without ice first to build the foam.
After dry shaking, add ice to the shaker and shake again until it is chilled. Strain the blend into a glass. The final touch is a few dashes of Angostura bitters on the foam.
Serve it cold and enjoy its unique flavor and silky texture.
7) Corpse Reviver No. 1
The Corpse Reviver No. 1 is a classic cocktail known for its strong, rich flavors. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a robust drink. The key ingredients are cognac, Calvados (or apple brandy), and sweet vermouth.
Start by chilling a cocktail glass with ice. This helps keep your drink cold longer.
To prepare the cocktail, combine 1 oz of brandy, 1 oz of apple brandy or Calvados, and 1 oz of sweet vermouth in a mixing glass. Fill the mixing glass with ice.
Stir the mixture until well-chilled, usually about 20 to 30 seconds. Strain the drink into the chilled cocktail glass. Enjoy your Corpse Reviver No. 1 as a sophisticated start or end to your evening.
This cocktail is rooted in history, with its recipe appearing in Harry Craddock’s “The Savoy Cocktail Book” from 1930. It offers a rich, complex taste that has stood the test of time.
8) Stinger
The Stinger is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed since the pre-Prohibition era. It combines brandy with white crème de menthe for a refreshing and slightly minty taste.
To make a Stinger, you will need brandy and white crème de menthe. Using cognac instead of brandy is also popular.
Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the brandy and white crème de menthe to the shaker.
Shake the mixture until it is well-chilled. This usually takes about 10-15 seconds.
Once chilled, strain the mixture into a cocktail glass. You can serve it in a highball glass filled with ice if you prefer a longer drink.
For a garnish, you can add a sprig of fresh mint. This adds a nice touch of color and freshness.
The Stinger is simple to make yet delivers a unique and enjoyable flavor. It’s a great cocktail to serve at gatherings or to enjoy on a quiet evening.
9) Brandy Daisy
The Brandy Daisy is a classic cocktail from the mid to late 1800s. It’s refreshing and easy to make. You’ll need brandy, rum, curaçao, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water.
Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add brandy, rum, curaçao, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake well until all the ingredients mix and chill.
Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. Top with soda water. Adding a lemon twist as garnish gives it a nice touch.
The Brandy Daisy combines the richness of brandy with the citrusy zing of lemon and the sweetness of simple syrup and curaçao. It’s a balanced drink that works well with high-quality brandies.
This cocktail is best served cold and makes a great drink for special occasions or a relaxing evening.
10) Jack Rose
The Jack Rose cocktail is a classic American drink that dates back to the early 20th century. It’s known for its bright pink color and bold flavors.
To make a Jack Rose, you’ll need apple brandy, lemon or lime juice, and grenadine. This combination creates a balanced cocktail with sweet, tart, and fruity notes.
Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 2 ounces of apple brandy, 0.75 ounces of fresh lemon or lime juice, and 0.5 ounces of grenadine.
Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to chill and blend the ingredients well.
Strain the drink into a chilled cocktail glass. You can garnish it with a lemon twist or a cherry to add a bit of flair.
The Jack Rose is a great way to enjoy apple brandy, offering both a refreshing and potent experience. Give it a try next time you’re in the mood for a sophisticated yet straightforward cocktail.
11) Brandy Old Fashioned
The Brandy Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail with a twist. Instead of using whiskey, you use brandy. This simple change creates a whole new flavor profile. It’s a favorite in many parts of the United States, especially in Wisconsin.
To make a Brandy Old Fashioned, you’ll need brandy, a sugar cube, Angostura bitters, and lemon-lime soda. Start by placing the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass. Add a few dashes of bitters and a splash of soda to the cube.
Muddle the sugar cube with the bitters and soda until it dissolves. Add a slice of orange and cherries to the glass and muddle them together. This step helps blend the flavors.
Next, pour in the brandy and add a couple of ice cubes. Stir well to mix everything. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more soda, or you can use seltzer or club soda if you prefer a less sweet drink.
Finally, garnish with a skewered cherry and an orange slice. This adds a nice touch and extra flavor. Now, your Brandy Old Fashioned is ready to enjoy.
12) Horse’s Neck
The Horse’s Neck is a timeless cocktail that dates back to the late 19th century. This drink is simple yet elegant, making it a great choice for those who enjoy classic flavors. You can make it with brandy or bourbon, depending on your preference.
To prepare a Horse’s Neck, start with a highball or Collins glass. Add a long spiral of lemon peel, letting it snake around the inside of the glass. This garnish adds a pleasing visual twist to the drink.
Fill the glass with ice cubes. Pour 2 ounces of brandy or bourbon over the ice.
Next, top the drink with around 4 ounces of ginger ale. This gives the cocktail its refreshing, fizzy character.
Finish by adding a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters. The bitters bring a layer of depth and complexity to the drink.
Gently stir the cocktail with a bar spoon to mix all the ingredients together. Your Horse’s Neck is now ready to enjoy.
History of Brandy Cocktails
Brandy has a rich history, starting from its origins as a distilled wine to its rise as a beloved spirit in cocktails. The evolution of brandy cocktails highlights its versatility and enduring popularity.
Origins of Brandy
Brandy, originating from the Dutch word “brandewijn” meaning “burnt wine,” was first distilled in the 16th century. It became popular in Europe, especially in France, where it was produced in regions like Cognac and Armagnac.
The process of distilling wine was initially for preservation. It allowed for easier storage and transport. Over time, brandy became appreciated for its unique flavors, which improved with age.
Evolution of Cocktails
Brandy cocktails first gained prominence in the 19th century. Classic cocktails, such as the Brandy Crusta and the Brandy Sour, emerged during this period. They showcased the spirit’s depth and complexity.
In the 20th century, cocktails like the Brandy Alexander and the Sidecar became popular. These drinks cemented brandy’s role in cocktail culture. The use of mixers, from citrus to cream, highlighted brandy’s versatility and appeal to a wide audience.
Key Ingredients in Brandy Cocktails
The main components of brandy cocktails are the various types of brandy and the spirits and mixers that complement them. Each plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and enjoyable drink.
Types of Brandy
Cognac: Cognac is a well-known type of brandy from the Cognac region in France. It is often used in premium cocktails due to its rich flavor. You might find it in drinks like the Sidecar or the Vieux Carré.
Armagnac: Armagnac is another French brandy with a more robust and earthy profile compared to Cognac. It’s less common in cocktails but shines in simpler recipes where its complex flavors stand out.
American Brandy: American brandies can vary widely in taste and quality. They offer a versatile option for mixing into various cocktails like the Brandy Old Fashioned.
Pisco: This South American spirit, made from fermented grape juice, is technically a type of brandy. It’s used in cocktails like the Pisco Sour, where its unique floral and fruity notes come through.
Complementary Spirits and Mixers
Curaçao: An orange-flavored liqueur that pairs well with brandy. It adds both sweetness and citrusy complexity, commonly found in cocktails like the Brandy Crusta.
Cocoa Liqueur (Creme de Cacao): This sweet, chocolate-flavored liqueur is used in cocktails like the Brandy Alexander. It adds richness and depth to the drink.
Whiskey: Often used in tandem with brandy in potent drinks such as the Sazerac and Vieux Carré. Whiskey’s robust flavors complement the smoother notes of brandy.
Absinthe: A highly aromatic spirit that adds a layer of complexity to vintage cocktails like the Sazerac. It’s used sparingly due to its strong flavor.
Bitters: Both Angostura and Peychaud’s bitters are common additions. They add aromatic depth and subtle bitterness to balance the sweetness of other ingredients.
Using these key ingredients wisely can elevate your brandy cocktails, giving them unique flavors and characteristics that stand out.
Techniques for Mixing Brandy Cocktails
Mastering the art of brandy cocktails involves knowing when to shake or stir the drink, selecting the right glassware, and properly garnishing your cocktail for an appealing presentation.
Shaking vs. Stirring
Shaking is used when your cocktail includes fruit juices, dairy, or egg whites. It ensures these ingredients mix well and chill evenly. To shake a cocktail, fill the shaker with ice, add the ingredients, and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
Stirring is ideal for cocktails that are purely spirits, like the Sazerac or Vieux Carré. Stirring with a bar spoon preserves the clarity and smoothness of the cocktail. Stir your ingredients with ice in a mixing glass for about 30-45 seconds until well-chilled.
Proper Glassware
Choosing the right glass enhances both the presentation and experience of your cocktail.
For shaken brandy cocktails, use a cocktail glass (often called a martini glass). Its wide rim is perfect for aromatic cocktails.
For stirred cocktails like the Vieux Carré, use a rocks glass or old-fashioned glass. Its thick bottom is built to handle stirring and keeps the drink cooler for longer.
For drinks served with ice, a highball glass is recommended. Its tall, slim shape maintains the drink’s temperature and presentation.
Garnishing Tips
A well-chosen garnish can elevate your brandy cocktail. For drinks like the Brandy Alexander, a sprinkle of grated nutmeg or chocolate shavings adds a touch of elegance.
Citrus peels from lemons or oranges are excellent for cocktails such as a Brandy Sour. Use a zester or peel to create thin strips or twists.
For a classic touch, use a maraschino cherry or a small cluster of berries. Always ensure garnishes are fresh and complement the flavors of your cocktail.
By mastering these techniques, you can create well-balanced and visually appealing brandy cocktails every time.
