Brandy is a versatile spirit that forms the foundation for many classic and modern cocktails.
From the sophisticated Sidecar to the creamy Brandy Alexander, these drinks showcase brandy’s rich, fruity character in various ways.
You can find options ranging from simple two-ingredient mixtures to complex multi-layered creations.
Exploring brandy cocktails lets you appreciate this often overlooked spirit that bartenders have treasured for centuries.
Whether you prefer your drinks sweet, sour, strong, or refreshing, there’s a brandy cocktail that will suit your taste.
These 21 recipes will help you discover new favorites while mastering some timeless classics that have stood the test of time.
1. Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a classic dessert cocktail known for its creamy, indulgent flavor.
This drink requires just three simple ingredients: brandy (preferably cognac), crème de cacao, and cream or half & half.
To make this cocktail, combine equal parts of each ingredient in a shaker with ice. Shake until well-chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
For an extra touch, consider garnishing with a light dusting of nutmeg or chocolate shavings on top. The Brandy Alexander’s smooth, velvety texture makes it perfect for after-dinner sipping or as a sweet treat on special occasions.
2. Sidecar
The Sidecar is a classic cognac cocktail that combines brandy, orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice. It’s known for its perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors.
To make a traditional Sidecar, you’ll need 1.5 ounces of brandy (Courvoisier VS works well), 0.75 ounces of orange liqueur (Cointreau or Pierre Ferrand Curaçao), and 0.75 ounces of fresh lemon juice.
For an elegant presentation, try rimming your cocktail glass with sugar. Pierre Ferrand 1840 paired with Cointreau makes an excellent combination for this drink.
You can also experiment with different brandies. Some people prefer using Asbach 8 Years if you want to try a brandy variation instead of cognac.
3. Metropolitan
The Metropolitan is a classic brandy cocktail that combines brandy with sweet vermouth. It’s easy to make and has a rich, sophisticated flavor.
To make a Metropolitan, mix 1½ ounces of brandy with ½ ounce of sweet vermouth. Add ¼ ounce of fresh lemon juice and a teaspoon of grenadine for sweetness.
Don’t forget to add a dash of bitters for complexity. Angostura bitters work well in this recipe.
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a cocktail glass.
The result is a slightly sweet, balanced drink that showcases the warmth of brandy while adding depth from the vermouth and bitters.
4. Corpse Reviver No. 1
The Corpse Reviver No. 1 is a classic brandy cocktail designed to wake up your senses.
It combines two parts brandy, one part apple brandy (typically Calvados), and one part sweet vermouth.
This boozy drink is essentially a stronger version of a brandy Manhattan. According to The Savoy Cocktail Book, it was meant to be taken “before 11 am, or whenever steam and energy are needed.”
Unlike its more famous sibling, the Corpse Reviver No. 2 (which features gin and citrus), the No. 1 is a spirit-forward cocktail with no citrus elements. It’s perfect when you want something strong and warming.
5. Betsy Ross
The Betsy Ross cocktail pays tribute to the American historical figure with its rich, complex flavor profile. This classic drink combines brandy (or cognac) with port wine for a sophisticated taste.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need brandy, ruby port, orange curaçao, and Angostura bitters. Some recipes also include sweet vermouth or orange juice as variations.
Mix the ingredients in a glass with ice and stir until well-chilled. Then strain the mixture into a cocktail glass.
The combination of spirits creates a balanced drink with depth. The brandy provides a strong base while the port adds sweetness and the orange notes brighten the flavor.
6. Side by Sidecar
The Sidecar is a classic cognac cocktail that dates back to the 1920s. You can make this drink in several ways, each offering a slightly different flavor profile.
The traditional recipe combines cognac, orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice. You might try different orange liqueurs like Grand Marnier, Cointreau, or triple sec to find your preference.
For the brandy base, a good VSOP cognac works well. Non-AOC French brandies like St-Remy VSOP or Raynal VSOP are solid affordable options if you’re not ready to splurge on premium cognac.
The perfect Sidecar balances sweet and sour notes, making it a sophisticated choice for any occasion.
7. Brandy Sangaree
The Brandy Sangaree is a simple yet elegant cocktail dating back to the 19th century. It combines brandy with port wine and a touch of sweetness.
To make this classic drink, dissolve sugar in a small amount of water in a mixing glass.
Add 2 ounces of brandy and 1 ounce of port wine, then add ice and stir until well-chilled.
Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass. Some variations include a dash of bitters or substitute red wine for the port. You can garnish with a slice of orange or lemon for a touch of citrus aroma.
This cocktail lacks citrus juice, giving it a sweeter profile than many other brandy drinks. It’s perfect for sipping after dinner.
8. Brandy Old Fashioned
The Brandy Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail with a special place in Wisconsin drinking culture.
It starts with muddling orange slices and brandied cherries with a sugar cube and bitters.
Add 2 ounces of brandy to your muddled mixture, then top with 7UP, Sprite, or club soda for a sweet version.
For a more traditional approach, you can simply combine 2 ounces of Cognac with a teaspoon of sugar and two dashes of bitters.
Serve over ice with an orange twist garnish. You can customize this drink to your taste by adjusting the sweetness or using different types of brandy.
9. Cognac Julep
The Cognac Julep offers a refined twist on the classic Mint Julep by substituting bourbon with smooth cognac. This variation brings new depth to the beloved summer cocktail.
To make a Cognac Julep, muddle 4 fresh mint sprigs with sugar and a splash of water in a julep tin or rocks glass. This step releases the mint’s essential oils for maximum flavor.
Add your favorite cognac and fill the glass three-quarters full with crushed ice. Stir gently until the outside of the glass frosts.
Garnish with additional mint sprigs for aroma. This sophisticated cocktail is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you want a refreshing, elegant drink.
10. MGM Grand
The MGM Grand cocktail offers a delicious twist on the classic casino cocktail. This brandy-based drink combines the rich warmth of brandy with the sweet cherry notes of Luxardo Maraschino liqueur.
To make this cocktail at home, mix 45ml of your favorite brandy with 15ml of Luxardo Maraschino.
The result is a sophisticated drink that balances the deep flavors of brandy with subtle sweetness.
If you visit the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, you can enjoy this and other brandy cocktails at their Lobby Bar. Located near the main entrance, this casual bar offers both classic and trendy drink options.
11. Bombay No. 2
The Bombay No. 2 is a classic brandy cocktail that appears in the 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book. This vintage drink combines brandy with both dry and sweet vermouth for a balanced flavor profile.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need 1½ ounces of brandy, ¾ ounce each of dry and sweet vermouth, ¼ ounce of curaçao or Grand Marnier, and a couple dashes of absinthe or Pernod.
The result is a sophisticated drink with complex notes from the vermouth duo and subtle orange flavor from the curaçao. The absinthe adds just a hint of anise that ties everything together.
12. Brandy Crusta
The Brandy Crusta is a classic cocktail created in New Orleans during the 1850s by Italian bartender Joseph Santini. It’s known for its distinctive sugar-rimmed glass and long lemon peel garnish.
This elegant drink combines cognac with citrus flavors for a balanced taste.
The traditional recipe includes cognac (or brandy), dry curaçao (or Cointreau), maraschino liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and a couple dashes of Angostura bitters.
You can easily make this at home by mixing 1.5 oz cognac, 0.5 oz curaçao, 0.5 oz maraschino liqueur, and 0.75 oz lemon juice with ice. Some recipes add a touch of simple syrup for sweetness.
The sugar rim and spiral lemon peel that extends above the glass are what make this cocktail truly special.
13. Brandy Flip
The Brandy Flip is a rich, warming cocktail that has been enjoyed since the 1600s. It combines brandy, a whole egg, and sugar for a creamy, boozy experience.
To make this classic drink, add 60ml of brandy, one whole egg, and sugar syrup to a shaker with ice.
Shake vigorously to properly incorporate the egg.
Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass and top with a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg. This drink is particularly popular during winter and holiday seasons.
You might find the whole egg intimidating, but it creates a silky texture that balances perfectly with the robust brandy flavor.
14. Brandy Manhattan
The Brandy Manhattan is a classic twist on the traditional Manhattan cocktail, substituting brandy for whiskey. This variation offers a smoother, slightly sweeter profile while maintaining the cocktail’s sophisticated character.
To make this elegant drink, combine 2 ounces of brandy with 1 ounce of sweet vermouth and a few dashes of Angostura bitters.
Stir with ice until well-chilled, then strain into a cocktail glass.
You can garnish your Brandy Manhattan with a Luxardo cherry and a lemon peel for added flavor and visual appeal. In Wisconsin, this variation is actually more popular than the whiskey-based original.
15. Brandy Sour
The Brandy Sour is a refreshing cocktail that balances the richness of brandy with bright citrus flavors. It’s simple to make but delivers complex taste.
To create this classic drink, you’ll need brandy, fresh lemon juice, and powdered sugar or simple syrup.
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a lowball glass.
For the best presentation, garnish with a lemon slice and top with a cherry. This cocktail works well year-round and can be adjusted to your taste preferences by varying the sweetness level.
The Brandy Sour is perfect for those new to brandy cocktails, as the citrus notes make it approachable while still showcasing the spirit’s character.
16. Call Me Old-Fashioned
The Brandy Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that showcases brandy’s rich flavors. Unlike its whiskey cousin, this version offers a smoother, fruitier profile.
To make one, muddle a sugar cube with Angostura bitters, orange slices, and cherries in a rocks glass.
Add 2 ounces of brandy and ice, then top with soda water or lemon-lime soda.
The Wisconsin version often uses 7UP or Sprite for added sweetness. You can customize it by choosing between “sweet” with lemon-lime soda or “sour” with grapefruit soda.
This timeless cocktail balances the warmth of brandy with subtle sweetness and aromatic bitters.
17. Winter Pimm’s Punch
Winter Pimm’s Punch transforms the traditional summer favorite into a warm, cozy cocktail perfect for colder months. This seasonal variation combines Pimm’s No. 1 with brandy for a deeper flavor profile.
The drink typically features apple juice, warm spices like cinnamon, and sliced fruits.
You can enhance it with ginger beer for a bit of zesty heat that balances the sweetness.
For a complete winter cocktail, mix Pimm’s with brandy, add apple juice, then garnish with orange slices, apple pieces, and cinnamon sticks. Some recipes include maple syrup or vanilla for added warmth.
This punch works wonderfully for winter gatherings and holiday parties. You can prepare it in a pitcher for easy serving.
18. Mulled Quince Cider
Mulled Quince Cider combines the unique flavor of quince with the warming spices of traditional mulled drinks. This seasonal cocktail features brandy as its base spirit, creating a cozy drink perfect for cool weather.
To make this drink, start with quince cider as your base. Add brandy, warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.
Heat the mixture gently without boiling to preserve the alcohol content.
You can customize this cocktail by adjusting the spice level or adding citrus peels for brightness. Serve in heat-resistant mugs with a cinnamon stick garnish for a festive touch.
19. Spiced Apple Strudel & Brandy Cocktail
This delightful cocktail combines the warm, comforting flavors of apple strudel with the rich depth of brandy. It features a mix of cognac, apple juice, and Disaronno with seasonal spices.
To make this drink, you’ll need 100ml cognac, 200ml pressed apple juice, 50ml Disaronno, 50ml Madeira wine, lemon juice, and a cinnamon stick.
Add 2 tablespoons of golden caster sugar for sweetness.
The cinnamon stick infuses the cocktail with warm spice notes that complement the apple flavors perfectly. Serve over ice for a refreshing take on a dessert-inspired drink that works well in fall and winter months.
20. Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling is a brandy-based twist on the classic cocktail. This boozy drink balances acidity from citrus and pineapple with subtle sweetness from liqueurs.
To make it, combine brandy, cherry brandy, Bénédictine liqueur, lime juice, and pineapple juice in a shaker with ice.
Add a splash of grenadine for color and sweetness.
While traditional Singapore Slings use gin, this brandy version offers a richer flavor profile. The cherry brandy (or cherry liqueur like Cherry Heering) adds fruity depth.
Serve your Singapore Sling in a tall glass over ice, garnished with a cherry and pineapple slice for a tropical touch.
21. Spiced Sidecar
The Spiced Sidecar is a flavorful twist on the classic Sidecar cocktail. This drink combines brandy, triple sec, and fresh lemon juice with an unexpected ingredient: mustard.
Specifically, some recipes call for Colman’s Mustard to add a unique spicy kick. The mustard creates a pleasant contrast with the sweetness of the brandy and triple sec.
To make this cocktail, shake brandy, triple sec, lemon juice, and a small amount of mustard with ice.
Strain into a sugar-rimmed glass for a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
Try this innovative variation when you want to surprise your guests with something different from traditional brandy cocktails.
History and Origins of Brandy Cocktails
Brandy cocktails have a rich history dating back centuries, with their origins deeply rooted in European tradition. The spirit itself played a significant role in early mixology, appearing in many drinks we still enjoy today.
Evolution of Brandy Cocktails Over Time
Brandy’s journey in cocktails began around the 12th century in Europe, with both Spain and France claiming important roles in its development. Initially, brandy served practical purposes before becoming a cocktail ingredient.
By the 19th century, brandy had become the king of spirits in cocktail culture. Many classic drinks we now associate with other spirits originally featured brandy as their base.
The Sazerac, Mint Julep, and Old Fashioned all started as brandy cocktails before evolving to their modern recipes.
Jerry Thomas’s landmark 1862 bartending guide “How To Mix Drinks or The Bon-Vivant’s Companion” documented the Brandy Cocktail, cementing its place in cocktail history. This traditional recipe featured brandy, bitters, and sugar—a simple yet sophisticated combination.
Cultural Influence on Brandy Mixology
Different regions developed unique approaches to brandy cocktails based on local tastes and available ingredients. French cognac, in particular, dominated the cocktail scene of the 1800s, creating a standard for quality and flavor.
Paris in the 1920s became a hotspot for brandy cocktails during the American Prohibition era. Expatriates and travelers flocked to European cities where they could legally enjoy sophisticated brandy-based drinks. This cultural exchange helped spread brandy cocktail traditions globally.
American bartenders later adapted these European traditions, creating variations like the Metropolitan cocktail. Regional preferences emerged, such as the Brandy Old-Fashioned in Wisconsin, which remains a state favorite.
Today, you can find both traditional recipes and modern interpretations of brandy cocktails that honor this spirit’s storied past while embracing new mixing techniques and flavor combinations.
Understanding the Ingredients
The perfect brandy cocktail depends on selecting the right type of brandy and complementary mixers. Knowing these ingredients helps you create balanced drinks with rich flavors and proper presentation.
Types of Brandy Used in Cocktails
Cognac is the most prestigious brandy, produced in the Cognac region of France. It offers rich, complex flavors that work beautifully in classic cocktails like the Sidecar and Vieux Carré.
Armagnac is another French brandy with a more rustic character and pronounced flavors. It makes for bolder cocktails with distinctive personality.
American Brandy tends to be lighter and more affordable, making it versatile for everyday mixed drinks. E&J and Christian Brothers are common brands.
Fruit Brandies like Calvados (apple) and Eau de Vie (various fruits) provide unique flavor profiles for specialized cocktails. These can add interesting dimensions to traditional recipes.
When selecting brandy for cocktails, consider the VS (Very Special) label for mixing and VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) for premium drinks where brandy is the star.
Popular Mixers and Garnishes
Citrus juices pair exceptionally well with brandy. Lemon juice is essential for classics like the Sidecar, while orange complements brandy’s natural sweetness.
Liqueurs that work well include:
- Triple sec or curaçao for orange notes
- Crème de cacao for chocolate undertones
- Coffee liqueurs for rich depth
Simple syrup balances acidity from citrus components, while bitters add complexity and aromatic qualities.
For garnishes, citrus twists provide aromatic oils that enhance the drinking experience. Cherries (particularly Luxardo) add a sophisticated touch to brandy cocktails.
Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and star anise work wonderfully in warm brandy drinks. Consider fresh herbs like mint or thyme for modern takes on brandy cocktails.
Soda water creates refreshing highball variations, extending brandy’s rich flavor into a more casual drinking experience.
Crafting the Perfect Brandy Cocktail
Creating excellent brandy cocktails requires attention to both flavor balance and presentation details. These elements transform basic drinks into memorable experiences.
Techniques for Balancing Flavors
Brandy’s rich character pairs well with both sweet and citrus elements. Start with quality brandy as your foundation – cognac offers complexity while American brandy provides a smoother profile.
For sweet cocktails like the Brandy Alexander, balance the sweetness with cream and nutmeg to prevent overwhelming the palate.
When using citrus in drinks like the Sidecar, use fresh lemon juice and measure precisely – about 3/4 oz per 2 oz of brandy works well.
Temperature affects flavor perception. Warming brandy slightly releases more aromatics, ideal for sippers. For refreshing cocktails, proper ice and thorough chilling are essential.
Taste as you mix and adjust incrementally. Add simple syrup in small amounts (1/4 oz at a time) until balance is achieved.
Remember that flavors meld after mixing, so allow drinks to settle briefly before final adjustments.
Tips for Serving and Presentation
Select appropriate glassware to enhance the drinking experience. Use snifters for neat brandy. Meanwhile, use coupe glasses for Sidecars, and rocks glasses for Old Fashioneds.
Garnish Options:
- Citrus twists (express oils over drink)
- Fresh nutmeg (for creamy cocktails)
- Cinnamon sticks (for warm brandy drinks)
- Brandied cherries (for sophistication)
Ice quality matters significantly. Use large, clear ice cubes for slower dilution in spirits-forward drinks. For shaken cocktails, strain properly to avoid ice chips that over-dilute.
Temperature control extends to glassware – chill glasses for cold cocktails and warm snifters slightly for neat pours. You can do this by rinsing with hot water then drying.
Consider aroma when presenting. The glass shape should concentrate brandy’s bouquet, and garnishes should complement rather than compete with the spirit’s natural scent.
