In this guide, we’ll delve into 27 standout brandy cocktails that are perfect for treating yourself during happy hour, as well as a bonus section dedicated to the variations and adaptations of these classics.
Flor de Jerez
Just in case you’re wondering what to do with a bottle of apricot brandy that’s been collecting dust, why not try creating a Flor de Jerez? This unique cocktail is a perfect way to repurpose your leftover spirits.
To make one, start by adding ice to a cocktail shaker and then pour in one and a half ounces of sherry, followed by half an ounce of Jamaican rum, a quarter ounce of apricot brandy, three quarters an ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, half an ounce of 2:1 sugar syrup, and finish it off with a dash of Angostura Bitters. Once you’ve added all the ingredients, shake well to combine and then finely strain into a chilled coupe glass.
The result is a refreshing and complex cocktail that’s sure to impress your friends.
Brandy Horchata
Zeroing in on the perfect drink, if you have some nutmeg on hand, consider adding a sprinkle as a garnish to elevate the Brandy Horchata experience. To prepare this delightful cocktail, start by filling a rocks glass with ice cubes and then pour in one and a half ounces each of RumChata and brandy (refer to our earlier article ‘13 Amazingly Easy RumChata Recipe Ideas For Your Drinks’ for inspiration). Stir the mixture well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together harmoniously.
Finally, garnish with a pinch of nutmeg to add a warm, aromatic touch.
Brandy Sangaree
Knowing its rich history, the Brandy Sangaree has remained largely unchanged since its inception in the 1700s. To create this classic cocktail, start by dissolving half a teaspoon of sugar in a small amount of water – just enough to wet it evenly. Next, combine two ounces of brandy and an ounce of port wine in a mixing glass or shaker. Stir well until chilled before straining into a chilled glass, finishing with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top.
Betsy Ross
Since the fourth of July is just around the corner, many people are looking for the perfect cocktail to celebrate this patriotic holiday. One option that stands out from the rest is the Betsy Ross cocktail, named after the legendary seamstress who created the American flag. To make a Betsy Ross, start by filling a mixing glass with ice and pouring in one and a half ounces each of brandy and ruby port. Next, add half an ounce of Orange Curaçao and two dashes of Angostura Bitters.
Stir the mixture until it’s extremely chilled, then strain it into a well-chilled glass to serve.
Brandy Alexander
Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for your fall party is easier than you think, especially when it comes to delicious cocktails. A Brandy Alexander is the perfect drink to serve at such an event, blending flavors of booze, cream, and spices in perfect harmony. To prepare this mouth-watering cocktail, start by filling a shaker with ice and adding three ounces of brandy. Next, pour in two ounces each of Kahlua and cream, and shake everything together until well combined.
Once prepared, carefully pour the Brandy Alexander into a chilled glass and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon to add an extra touch of warmth and coziness.
Side by Sidecar
Historically, the Sidecar has been a popular cocktail for nearly a century, with its Side by Sidecar variant offering an intriguing twist on the classic recipe. To create this refreshing drink, start by wetting the rim of a chilled martini glass and giving it a light coating of sugar. Next, grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice before adding three quarters of an ounce each of brandy and pomegranate liqueur, one ounce of Triple Sec, and half an ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Once the ingredients are combined, double strain the mixture into your prepared martini glass.
Pisco Sour
Mixing up a list of cocktails would not be complete without including a sour, and one of the most iconic is the Pisco Sour. This classic drink is crafted by combining pisco, an ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice, three quarters of an ounce of simple syrup, and an egg white in a cocktail shaker, then shaking it all together to create the signature foam. Once the mixture has been sufficiently frothed, you can add ice to continue shaking until the cocktail is chilled to your liking.
Finally, strain the Pisco Sour into a chilled cocktail glass, adding just a dash of Angostura Bitters for added depth and complexity. To give it a try, click on the ‘Go to Recipe’ button below.
Brandy Daisy
Take your cocktail game to the next level by trying the Brandy Daisy, a refreshing twist on the classic Sidecar. To make this delightful drink, you’ll need to combine four ounces of brandy with half an ounce each of rum, Triple Sec, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Don’t forget to add one ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice and an equal amount of Sprite for a touch of fizz.
Once you’ve got all your ingredients mixed together, give the concoction a good shake before straining it into two chilled cocktail glasses. Whether you’re looking for something new to try or just want to mix things up, the Brandy Daisy is definitely worth a shot.
Metropolitan
Generally, the key to crafting the ideal Metropolitan is to begin with a chilled martini glass. Next, combine ice, two ounces of brandy, one ounce of sweet vermouth, half a teaspoon of simple syrup, and two dashes of Angostura Bitters in a cocktail shaker. Shake the mixture vigorously for a few seconds before carefully straining it into your prepared martini glass.
B&B
Very little is required to craft a classic Bénédictine D.O.M. and brandy cocktail, its simplicity being part of its enduring charm. Simply combine equal parts of both liqueurs in a chilled brandy snifter, taking care to serve the mixture without ice if you prefer it undiluted. Alternatively, a single ice cube can be added for a smoother, more refined taste experience after a brief stirring.
Embassy
Making the most of spirits is all about experimentation and creativity. Rum pairs exceptionally well with brandy, as evident in classic cocktails like the Embassy. To create this refreshing drink, fill a cocktail shaker with ice and pour in three quarters of an ounce each of brandy and Jamaican rum, then add a quarter of an ounce of Triple Sec, half an ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice, and just a dash of Angostura Bitters.
Shake the mixture vigorously to combine and chill the ingredients before straining it into a chilled cocktail glass with a lime wedge garnish.
Champagne Cocktail
Notably, this cocktail is designed for those who appreciate luxury ingredients. To make it, pour three-quarters of an ounce of brandy into each of the four flutes, followed by an ounce of Triple Sec or Cointreau. Finally, top with Champagne and enjoy, even if there’s some bubbly leftover – a minor concern at best.
Champagne Bowler
Here’s a refreshing idea – why not create this delectable Champagne Bowler cocktail when strawberries are in season? To start, gently press three hulled strawberries together with half an ounce of simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Next, add ice and combine it with brandy and an ounce of white wine. Give the mixture a good shake before pouring it into a wine goblet. Finally, top up with Champagne or any other sparkling wine you prefer, and garnish with another strawberry for added flair.
Brandy Cobbler
Loading up on fresh seasonal produce is essential for creating a truly authentic flavor profile in this cocktail. Opt for the ripest, juiciest fruits that are readily available during your preferred time of year, as they will add a depth and vibrancy to the drink that’s hard to replicate with out-of-season ingredients. To assemble the cocktail, fill a red wine glass with shaved ice, followed by two ounces of brandy and a teaspoon of simple syrup.
Finish it off by topping up the glass with a couple of ounces of soda water and garnish with your chosen seasonal fruit – strawberries, in particular, pair beautifully with this recipe.
Brandy Smash
Delving into the creation of the Brandy Smash cocktail, it’s essential to first prepare your ingredients for muddling. Specifically, you’ll need four fresh mint leaves, one teaspoon of sugar, and a predetermined measure of soda water. Once you have these components ready, proceed to fill a glass with ice and then carefully add two and a half measures of brandy to stir the mixture.
Laura Hauser is a food writer and editor passionate about authentic, approachable home cooking.
