Know your brandy – Stay informed
Brandy is a versatile and elegant spirit enjoyed all over the world. Each type has its own story, flavor, and tradition. Here are the eight major types of brandy you should know
1. Cognac
A premium French brandy made exclusively in the Cognac region under strict regulations. Cognac is double-distilled in copper pot stills and aged in oak barrels, which gives it a smooth, refined flavor with notes of vanilla, dried fruit, and subtle spice.
2. Armagnac
Also from France, Armagnac is distilled just once, usually in a column still, resulting in a bolder and earthier profile. It’s often more rustic and complex than Cognac, with rich, nutty, and spicy characteristics.
3. American Brandy
rimarily produced in California, American brandy is known for being smooth, fruity, and highly versatile. It features fresh orchard fruit notes and caramel undertones, with many craft distillers innovating new styles.
4. Spanish Brandy
Coming mainly from the Jerez region, Spanish brandy is aged through the solera system. This unique aging method creates a rich, sweet spirit with sherry-like flavors, including dried fruit, figs, and gentle spices
5. Pisco
An unaged brandy made from grapes in Peru and Chile. Pisco is clear, floral, and fruity, often enjoyed in cocktails like the classic Pisco Sour but equally delightful sipped neat.
6. Calvados
An apple or pear brandy from Normandy, France, Calvados is aged in oak barrels and delivers a fruity, spicy profile that distinguishes it from grape brandies. It’s enjoyed both as a sipping spirit and in cooking.
7. Grappa
An Italian brandy distilled from grape pomace — the leftover skins, seeds, and stems after winemaking. Grappa is known for its strong, aromatic qualities and is traditionally served as a digestif.
8. Fruit Brandy (Eau-de-Vie)
Clear and colorless, fruit brandies are distilled from various fruits such as cherries (Kirsch), plums (Slivovitz), pears, or apricots. Popular in Central and Eastern Europe, these spirits are dry, intensely aromatic, and unaged.