Brandy
The history of brandy is long and storied. Harking back to the very start of the 1300s, this time-honored spirit was first distilled as a medicine in France and actually literally called the water of life (l’eau de vie).
Today this amber-hued spirit is still popular around the globe, forming the base of amazing cocktails that range from refreshing summer sippers with lashings of mint and lemon, to beautifully layered classics that add a little warmth in winter. Here is a selection of our favorite brandy cocktails for you to make and enjoy at home.
Calvados Brandy: The Ultimate Guide to French Apple Brandy
The warm aroma of baked apples, a hint of vanilla, and a whisper of spice… Calvados is a snippet of Normandy’s rich heritage captured in a glass. Smooth yet complex, this French apple brandy comes to the party with lush layers of fruit, oak, and caramel. A liquor with centuries of tradition, Calvados is crafted […]
What is Cognac? Everything You Need to Know About French Brandy
There’s nothing quite like the first sip of cognac. Rich and smooth, it coats the palate with layers of fruit, warm spice, and delicate floral notes, unfolding into hints of oak and a lingering finish. The aroma alone is an experience—ripe orchard fruits, subtle vanilla, and a whisper of jasmine rising from the glass. A […]
15 Popular Brandy Cocktail Recipes to Try
Brandy cocktails are a versatile delight, whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a brandy enthusiast looking to shake things up. From timeless classics like the Sidecar to modern gems like the French Twist, this collection offers a full spectrum of flavors. Perfect for dinner parties, casual gatherings, or cozy nights in, these recipes celebrate brandy […]
Armagnac vs. Cognac: Key Differences Explained
In the heart of Western France, the regions of Cognac and Armagnac are celebrated for producing some of the world’s finest grape brandies. Situated close together—Cognac along the Atlantic coast, just north of Bordeaux, and Armagnac a scenic hour-and-a-half drive to the south—these gorgeous regions craft two distinct styles of brandy. Let’s delve into the […]
15 Perfect Holiday Food & Cocktail Pairings to Impress Your Guests
Get ready to jingle your taste buds and deck the halls with truly impressive snacks and sips, friend! In this festive guide, we’ll sleigh the art of cocktail and food pairings for Christmas, unwrapping a symphony of flavors to make your holiday celebrations merry, tasty, and bright. It’s time to toast, taste, and be cheekily […]
Best Clarified Cocktails: Recipes & Techniques for Perfectly Clear Drinks
When it comes to mastering the art of clarified cocktails, the most important thing to realize is that there is a fair amount of magical, science-y things involved. Clarification involves removing impurities and cloudiness from a cocktail to achieve a crystal-clear appearance without sacrificing flavor, and while it’s tricky, it’s also 100% awesome. This […]
The Science of Rice-Washing & Starch in Cocktails
Using starch in cocktails is a simple but innovative technique that can add sweetness, body, texture, and opacity to mixed drinks, resulting in truly unique and delicious creations. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, starch washing is a great way to experiment and expand your cocktail repertoire. Here’s what you need to […]
The Best Cocktail Cherries to Garnish Your Favorite Cocktail
Cocktail cherries are more than just a sweet treat—they’re the cherry on top that elevates your drink to the next level! Especially in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, the right cherry adds a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance. Whether you’re a fan of tart, sweet, or boozy, choosing the perfect cherry […]
18 Delicious Pumpkin Cocktails to Spice Up Your Fall Celebrations
Get ready to stir up some deliciously cozy drinks this fall! We’ve rounded up a line-up of pumpkin cocktails that will have your taste buds celebrating the flavors of the season. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just craving a drink with an autumnal twist, these fall-infused sippers are sure to carve out a […]
The Ultimate Guide to Hosting a Rugby World Cup Party at Home
Getting ready to host a Rugby World Cup party or two? So are we! The RWC is more than just a sporting event; it is also a celebration of rugby culture. The tournament is a wonderful showcase of the sport’s traditions and values and is a great opportunity to learn more about the game. Of course, […]
16 German Cocktails to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Style
German cocktails to celebrate Oktoberfest? Das ist gut, schatz! The Mixer has been gearing up for the world’s largest Volksfest, and we’ve rounded up a tasty list of some of the best German-inspired drinks around. So, grab a cocktail shaker, don a dirndl if you dare, and let’s get ready to get Gaudi! 1. Radler […]
6 of the Best Boozy Sauces to Elevate Your Cooking
Have you tried boozy sauces yet? Sauces are the secret tools of every chef, adding depth, flavor, and richness to everyday dishes. While traditional sauces have a solid place in the lineup, incorporating a smidge of booze into your culinary creations can take your cooking to a whole new level. Alcohol-laced sauces infuse tantalizing flavors […]