Brandy is a broad family of spirits distilled from wine or fermented fruit. Cognac is brandy, but not every brandy is Cognac.
Main brandy styles
- Grape brandy: a broad category made in many countries.
- Cognac: protected French grape brandy with defined production rules.
- Armagnac: Gascony brandy often associated with fruit and spice.
- Calvados: apple or pear brandy from Normandy.
- Pisco: South American grape spirit with country-specific rules.
- Fruit brandy: spirits made from cherries, plums, pears and other fruit.
How to serve brandy
Use a tulip glass for neat tasting. Younger brandy works well in cocktails, while mature bottles may reveal more dried fruit, nuts and oak with a few drops of water.
Two easy drinks
Brandy Highball
Combine 1½ oz brandy with soda or ginger ale over ice and garnish with lemon.
Brandy Alexander
Shake equal parts brandy, crème de cacao and cream with ice, then strain and grate nutmeg over the top.
How to choose a bottle
For cocktails, look for a lively, fruit-forward style that will remain clear beside citrus, sweeteners or soda. For sipping, compare the stated origin, age category, maturation details and producer description rather than assuming the oldest or most elaborate bottle will always suit your taste.
Browse brandy, Cognac and the broader brandy and Cognac collection.
