Spirit overview

Brandy

Brandy is distilled wine or fruit wine, often aged in oak. It is judged by fruit, oak, warmth, texture and age.

Quick facts

BaseDistilled fermented grain, fruit, wine or botanicals

AlcoholUsually 35-50% ABV

ServeNeat, chilled, with food or in cocktails

Taste mapClean, herbal, fruit, spice, smoke or oak

These places are strongly associated with brandy through origin, production, serving culture or everyday ritual.

A fermented base is distilled to concentrate alcohol and aroma. Some spirits are aged, flavored with botanicals, or diluted before bottling.

More topics, events and calendar moments.

Grape brandyClassic wine distillate; fruit, oak and spice.

Fruit brandyMade from apple, pear, plum or apricot.

Aged brandySofter, darker and more vanilla or nut toned.

Aroma	Smell first: fruit, grain, roast, herbs, spice, oak or fermentation tell you what to expect.
Texture	Notice body, bubbles, tannin, creaminess or alcohol warmth.
Finish	A short finish feels simple; a long finish keeps changing after you swallow.
Food match	Pair intensity with intensity: delicate drinks with lighter food, bold drinks with richer or saltier dishes.