It is a quintessential distilled spirit with a history of sophistication. Brandy is born of fermented fruit juices and steeped in centuries of tradition, with all the flavours and styles available in cross-section. Knowing the different types of brandy is essential for lovers and buyers to comprehend the diversities of the types of brandy, and it will bring you into a world of savoury tastings. 3elixir also pays off for the premium options, with a reliable method of discovering great types of brandy selections.
Brandy isn’t just a drink; it is an experience. You sip with a history literally spanning centuries with each sip. And if you’re swirling a snifter of Cognac or savouring a glass of Calvados, the world of brandy awaits exploration. It’s diverse enough to please everyone from the connoisseur to those who just enjoy a drink on occasion. In this guide, we’ll explore the world of brandy, from the different types of brandy and where to find them to brands to try so that you can better understand this fascinating world.
What is Brandy?
Distilled fruit juice spirit made with fruit juice inked in, usually from grapes). The fruit juice is fermented and distilled to concentrate the alcohol and flavours. It goes well while grapes are traditional, though other fruits like apples, pears and cherries are also used to make varied versions.
Brandy is a European product originating from a byproduct of winemaking. However, distillation was first used by historians in the Middle Ages for medicinal purposes. By the 16th century, brandy had worked its way into European trade and culture, particularly in France, Spain, and Italy. It picks up the name 'brandewijn', a Dutch word that translates into 'burnt wine', a reminder of distillation. Learn more about wine.
It’s a flavour-filled drink, and the notes of dried fruits, caramel, vanilla, and spices are common. Brandy has aged in oak barrels or flasks, and the more it ages, the more complex it becomes. Usually, it is between 35% and 60% alcohol and is a good drinking spirit on its own or used as a base for cocktails. That versatility is one reason why brandy is so beloved everywhere.
Brandy has cultural significance in addition to its taste. It’s a celebration and a symbol of hospitality in many countries. Brandy has a rich tradition of use, festive toasts from Cognac to the rustic charm of Armagnac. The flavours aren’t the only thing that endures; Every bottle is prepped with stories and the craft that goes into it.
Main Types of Brandy
Cognac
Cognac is often seen as a top horn of brandy, a place of distinction for excellence and heritage. This brandy is produced only in the Cognac region of France, and the production comes under strict regulations. To finish up, you will need a double distillation process in copper pot stills and ageing in French oak barrels for a refined product.
Cognac has a well-rounded, full-flavoured profile rich with fruit, spice, and oak. That's a spirit you're invited to a neat or in a fine cocktail. Hennessy, Remy Martin, and Martell all have a reputation to uphold as luxury goods, and Cognac has become the drink of choice not only for special occasions but for collectors.
Most importantly, what makes Cognac what it is is its ageing. The VS, VSOP, and XO classifications clarify what the spirit has experienced in its maturation. Very Special Cognacs (VS) are aged at least two years for youthful vibrancy. Very superior old pale (VSOP) Cognacs age their spirit at least four years for more depth. XO (Extra Old) Cognacs with a minimum age of ten years represent total elegance and complexity.
Armagnac
Then, Armagnac from the Gascony province in France is often overshadowed in comparison with its cousin, Cognac, but on its merits, Armagnac does have a charm all of its own. Armagnac is unlike Cognac because it goes through one distillation process, creating a more robust flavour, much like an earthy flavour profile. The transforming properties of the spirit are also due to the terroir of the beverage.
Fashioned in the shape of an armadillo, Armagnac darkly shades in the deep amber and combines a taste as palate pleasing as its name: dried fruit and spices, nuts and caramel. It is a rustic, authentic brandy that those who like the bolder flavours will appreciate. Though considerably less commercialised, Armagnac is a treasure for aficionados who want the real thing.
Also, Armagnac includes such varieties as Baco Blanc, Folle Blanche, and Colombard. That diversity, for its part, lends its flavour profiles their distinctness. Armagnac may not be as polished as Cognac, but it has a fantastic authenticity and depth behind it. For those who appreciate tradition, this is the spirit.
American Brandy
A growing number of American distillers are pioneering creativity and innovation in booze, propelling the brandy brand into the spotlight. American brandies are more varied in styles than those of their European counterparts. They are more fruitier, lighter and less alcoholic than their counterparts from Europe.
Hubs of high-quality brandy have sprung up in key regions; chief among them is California, where E&J Gallo and Germain-Robin have been leading the way. American brandy has something in store for you, be it classic or experimental. Also, smaller craft distilleries are making their appearance, producing unique expressions that break with the mould of what types of brandy have come to mean.
Pisco
South American speciality Pisco is Peruvian and chilense. Of course, a traditional spirit is produced using specific grape varieties and traditional methods, which leaves this incredibly clear, aromatic spirit unaged.
One of the most incredible types of brandy with bright and fruity flavour is Pisco, which is used in classic cocktails – the Pisco Sour is one of them. Because of its versatility and signature taste, it is a favourite among mixologists and a must-try for those in search of branching out their palate. Adding a fun cultural angle is the debate between Peruvian and Chilean Pisco, who claim to make the best Pisco using the best techniques and flavour.
Fruit Brandy
Fruit brandies are made from other fruits, such as apples, pears and cherries. Calvados is an apple brandy from Normandy, and Kirschwasser is a cherry brandy from Germany. These are some popular examples.
They are usually drunk as sweet and aromatic brandies to be served with desserts. Having an alternative to traditional grape types of brandy, they are a delightful option and give a glimpse of the diversity that exists in this spirits category. Just as much as the taste, the aroma is what is created in the fruit’s natural characteristics identified in the production process.
Flavored Brandy
Flavoured brandies have exploded in popularity, and younger consumers, as well as cocktail enthusiasts, are amped about them. Appropriately sweet, their flavours (peach, apricot, or the like or spices) make those types of brandy versatile and approachable brandies.
Flavoured brandies prove ideal for creating cocktails or making any ordinary dessert more fun. They are a statement of contemporary brandy as an entity flexible to adapt to contemporary tastes. Bold new flavours are trending in the producers’ labs, making this category one of the dynamic in the brandy world.
How Brandy is Classified
By Aging Process
Types of Brandy are often classified by their ageing process, which is indicated on the label:
- VS (Very Special): Aged for at least two years.
- VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale): Minimum marriage age of four years.
- XO (Extra Old): They have been aged for at least six years, but newer regulations may have them aged for at least ten years.
Ageing has a big impact on flavour, aroma, and colour, and the older a brandy is, the more complex it is. Oak barrels are your interaction when grooving vanilla, caramel, subtle spice, and tobacco.
By Region
For brandy, geographical indications are decisive in its definition of quality and reputation. Special regs dictate authentication of Cognac and Armagnac regions.
There are types of brandy unique to each region, and each area must have a different way of producing them. In addition, one can discover different types of brandy whilst travelling around different regions. A great example is a brandy from Spain, Brandy de Jerez, whose flavours come from the Sherry casks, which have been used for ageing.
By Ingredients
Brandy can be classified based on its base ingredient. Grapes are the most popular, but fruits such as apples, pears, and cherries may be included in particular varieties. No matter what fruits are used, it has a huge effect on the taste, texture, and smell of the final product. Cultural and regional identities are defined by ingredients as much as they would be by flavours.
How to Choose the Right Brandy
Choosing one will depend on the occasion, which kind of flavour you want, and how much you spend. VS or VSOP types of brandy are enough for casual sipping, whereas XO types are optimal for whatever occasion you are preparing to celebrate and for the gifting event.
If you don't have much, you can read tasting notes and reviews to narrow down your search. It works well as a pairing with food or cigars and is a good companion for a diverse set of things you do. Here are a few examples: Cognac, dark chocolate, or even a bold cigar can be a very high-end sensory experience.
Exploration is key. Find out what your palate delights in with the help of different styles and regions. There is so much to choose from when it comes to Cognac, Armagnac, or American brandy that you can find what works for you.
Conclusion
The world of brandy is as diverse as different types of brandy, which have their own story and flavours. There's a brandy for all tastes, from the fragrant Cognac to rustic Armagnac to the authoritative Calvados and the innovative flavoured varieties.
Whether you've been drinking for years or never had a sip, there's so much to explore with different types of brandy. Ready to start? At 3elixir, you'll find various types of brandy options, so check them out and discover your new favourite sip.
Brandy is a celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and history with an equally drink in Brandy’s name. Cheers to those endless possibilities this timeless spirit has to offer, so pour yourself a glass.