Classic Brandy Cocktail | Smooth, Aromatic, and Timeless
A refined revival of 19th-century mixology. The Brandy Cocktail blends aged brandy, Angostura bitters, and a touch of syrup into a smooth, aromatic sip that defines timeless elegance. Perfect for home bartenders who appreciate simple classics done right.
Elegant, spirit-forward, and steeped in history, the Brandy Cocktail remains one of the earliest recorded mixed drinks. Its minimalist balance of brandy, bitters, and syrup delivers warmth and depth without fuss—proof that true sophistication needs no flourish.
Background
First printed in Jerry Thomas’s Bartender’s Guide (1862), this cocktail captured an era when “cocktail” meant a simple combination of spirit, sugar, water, and bitters. Over 160 years later, it’s still mixed the same way—testament to its flawless construction and enduring appeal.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Brandy – provides rich fruit and oak warmth.
- Simple Syrup – softens the spirit’s edge with gentle sweetness.
- Angostura Bitters – adds spice and aromatic depth.
- Lemon Peel – brightens the finish with citrus oils.
Equipment
Mixing glass · Bar spoon · Strainer · Chilled cocktail glass.
Bittersweet Balance
This drink is the brandy world’s answer to the Old Fashioned—smooth yet structured, approachable yet complex. The interplay between fruit-forward brandy and herbal bitters creates layered warmth perfect for after-dinner sipping.
Variations & Substitutions
- Cognac Cocktail: Swap in cognac for a refined French twist.
- Orange Bitters Edition: Add a dash for brighter aromatics.
- Maple Version: Use maple syrup instead of simple syrup for deeper sweetness.
Helpful Tips
- Use well-aged brandy (VSOP or better).
- Always chill the glass for a crisp serve.
- Express the lemon peel over the drink—do not skip this step.
- For gatherings, pre-batch and stir with large clear ice cubes for speed and clarity.
Brandy Cocktail Recipe
Type of Glass
Cocktail Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 1/4 oz.
- 2 dashes
Directions
- Chill a cocktail glass.
- Add Brandy, Simple Syrup, and Angostura Bitters to a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir until well chilled and strain into the prepared glass.
- Express a lemon peel over the drink and drop it in.
Raise your glass to over a century of craftsmanship—the Brandy Cocktail proves that elegance never goes out of style.
