“Claret is the liquor for boys; port for men; but he who aspires to be a hero must drink brandy,” Samuel Jackson, the renowned English writer once said. And we think we should all be more like Mr Jackson. Brandy is the drink of heroes. And, if a neat glass of brandy isn’t really your thing, here are five delicious brandy cocktail recipes that are guaranteed to make you fall in love with brandy.
The Metropolitan
We all know the Cosmopolitan, now meet the Metropolitan. It’s super easy to make with only three ingredients involved, and tastes pretty kickass.
What you’ll need:
- 45 ml brandy
- 30 ml sweet vermouth
- 1 dash of Angostura bitters
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a mixing glass and stir well
- Strain into a cocktail glass
- Garnish with a lime wedge and serve
Sidecar
The classic brandy cocktail, Sidecar is the perfect balance of acidity and booziness. Nobody knows the exact origin of the drink, but it’s been around since World War I. Historic and delicious, this one is a must try.
What you’ll need:
- 45 ml ounces brandy
- 22 ml ounce Cointreau orange liqueur
- 22 ml lemon juice
- Lemon twist for garnish
Instructions:
- Pour the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice cubes
- Shake well
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
- Garnish with a lemon twist
The Brandy Cocktail
If you believe in the beauty of simplicity, this should be your go-to cocktail. This drink has been around for about two centuries and that says something.
What you’ll need:
- 60 ml brandy
- 1 tsp of sugar syrup
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Lemon twist
Instructions:
- Stir the brandy, sugar syrup and a couple of dashes of Angostura Bitters over ice in a mixing glass
- Strain into a cocktail glass
- Garnish with a lemon twist
Also Read: Cocktail Categories: Your Complete Guide
The Brandy Alexander
You know the drink has to be freaking brilliant when it’s named after one of the most powerful rulers in the world. This drink is a little different from the rest and you’ll know you’ve hit gold with the very first sip.
What you’ll need:
- 60 ml Cognac or other fine aged brandy
- 30 ml dark crème de cacao
- 30 ml cream
- 1 freshly grated nutmeg for garnish
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker and fill with ice
- Shake, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass
- Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg
Also Read: Brandy Vs. Whisky: What’s The Difference?
Corpse Reviver No.1
With that name, it’s hard to curb your curiosity. And this brandy cocktail recipe is worth it. Classic and potent describe this cocktail best, but sadly, we aren’t reviving any corpses.
What you’ll need:
- 30 ml Cognac
- 15 ml Calvados
- 15 ml sweet vermouth
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients to a shaker and fill with ice
- Shake well and strain into a cocktail glass
- Serve it to your friends or enjoy it alone!
Summing Up
Brandy is quite underrated if you ask us. However, with these brandy cocktail recipes by your side, we’re sure you’ll be tempted to try it out and appreciate this underrated drink in all its glory. So, get stirring!
FAQs
Is Brandy A Strong Alcohol?
Yes, brandy is a strong alcohol. It typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage ranging from 35% to 60%, making it a potent spirit.
Is Brandy More Alcoholic Than Whiskey?
No, brandy is not inherently more alcoholic than whiskey. Both brandy and whiskey can vary in alcohol content, but it depends on their specific production processes and aging.
Is It OK to Drink Brandy Every Day?
Drinking brandy every day is not recommended. Excessive daily alcohol consumption can lead to health issues, including addiction, liver damage, and other adverse effects. It’s best to drink in moderation.
Is Brandy A Man’s Drink?
No, brandy is not exclusively a man’s drink. It is enjoyed by people of all genders and has no gender-specific association. Taste preferences vary individually.
Can We Drink Brandy With Water?
Yes, you can drink brandy with water. Adding a splash of water can enhance the flavors and aromas of brandy, making it a common practice among brandy enthusiasts.
What Are The 4 Types Of Brandy?
The four main types of brandy are grape brandy, fruit brandy, pomace brandy, and grain brandy. Each is made from different base ingredients and has distinct flavors.