Brandy

Distilled wine, aged in oak — the umbrella term for all grape-based aged spirits.

Spirits Global (the category) 40% ABV
Flavor profile: boozyfruitysweet

Brandy is any distilled wine, though in common usage it means a grape-based, barrel-aged spirit. Cognac and Armagnac are French brandies of specific origin; Spanish brandy de Jerez is aged in the solera system and runs sweeter; American brandy (Paul Masson, E&J) is typically a budget mixer. In a pitcher of Sangria, brandy provides warmth, sweetness, and a bridge between the wine and the fruit. For cocktails that specify brandy rather than Cognac, a reasonable Spanish or American brandy is appropriate.

Common uses

Sangria, punch, simple after-dinner drinks.

Cocktails that use Brandy

  • Sangria — Spanish red wine with brandy, fresh fruit, and orange juice — summer in a pitcher

Substitutes

  • Cognac — More refined; any recipe calling for brandy works with Cognac.