Q: At what temperature and in what glass is it best to serve brandy?

To fully appreciate the rich aroma that this brandy alcohol possesses, it is best served at room temperature (about 18–21°C). The ideal vessel is „cognac glass” (with a bulbous bottom and a narrowing top) or tulip-shaped tasting glasses. Holding the bowl of the glass in your hand gently warms the spirit, which promotes the release of vanilla, oak and dried fruit notes.

Question 1

How does brandy differ from cognac?

Accepted Answer

Although these names are often used interchangeably, it is worth remembering the golden rule: every cognac is brandy, but not every brandy is cognac. Brandy is a broad category of spirits produced by distillation of fruit wine (most often grape). Cognac, on the other hand, is a strictly regional product that must be produced in the French province of Cognac according to rigorous procedures. When choosing good brandy in VINO&VINO, you can be sure that you are reaching for a spirit of high quality, regardless of its region of origin.

Question 2

At what temperature and in what glass is it best to serve brandy?

Accepted Answer

To fully appreciate the rich aroma that this brandy alcohol possesses, it is best served at room temperature (about 18–21°C). The ideal vessel is „cognac glass” (with a bulbous bottom and a narrowing top) or tulip-shaped tasting glasses. Holding the bowl of the glass in your hand gently warms the spirit, which promotes the release of vanilla, oak and dried fruit notes.

Question 3

Is brandy suitable for cocktails, or is it better to drink it neat?

Accepted Answer

Everything depends on the character of the chosen bottle. Mature, multi-year premium editions are best enjoyed neat, in small sips, which allows full contemplation of the flavor. By contrast, younger variants, whose brandy price is usually more accessible, make an excellent and elegant base for classic cocktails, such as Sidecar, Brandy Alexander or refreshing combinations with ginger ale and fresh mint.