However, the trend shows that using brandy in cocktails is an option that never ceases to surprise with its ability to adapt and appeal to an audience seeking new experiences.
At Cardenal Mendoza, we wanted to learn more about this world, so we spoke with Cuban Julio Cabrera, one of the world’s most renowned mixologists.
At 2:00 p.m. in Miami (8:00 p.m. in mainland Spain), Julio answers the phone with an enthusiasm that immediately hints at his passion for the world of spirits and mixology.
“Brandy was very popular 20–30 years ago in the U.S. Everyone used it in their cocktails, and the public recognized it. After that period, there was a time when it disappeared and fell out of use. However, in recent years it has been experiencing a sort of ‘resurgence,’” says Julio.
“In fact, a survey was conducted among the most renowned bartenders in the United States asking them to predict cocktail trends for the coming years, and most of them predicted a return of brandy to menus and the country’s top bars. Have you ever tried an ‘Old Fashioned’ where they’ve substituted brandy for rum? It’s simply incredible,” says Julio.
“Especially with Cardenal Mendoza,” he adds. “Cardenal Mendoza is easily recognizable here. Especially among the slightly older crowd.” “Aging in oak barrels that previously held sherry makes it incomparable to other beverages.”
“The quality of the raw materials and its methods make Cardenal Mendoza an exceptional spirit for crafting cocktails.”
We also had the opportunity to ask him about women’s taste for brandy. As you know, brandy is considered a drink primarily for men; however, as Julio tells us, there are other alternatives that can serve as a gateway to this audience.
“Cardenal Mendoza’s orange-based ‘Angelus’ brandy liqueur is a delicacy that women love and find appealing, so I believe we should continue down that path. Introduce Angelus to female consumers as a way to introduce them to brandy.”
Although it’s not just brandy in particular that’s making a comeback, but sherry in general. “We’re seeing a strong resurgence of cocktails based on amontillado, oloroso, and even Pedro Ximénez.” “In fact, 2018 is shaping up to be a very strong year for these wines. They’re back on everyone’s lips.”
As you can see, brandy is becoming a staple in cocktails; consumption is on the rise, new combinations are being created, and the public is starting to demand them. That’s why, since we love to experiment and innovate in what we do, we’re presenting three brandy-based cocktails for you to surprise your family, guests, or friends at home.
You won’t leave them indifferent! Are you up for the challenge?
Top 3 Brandy-Based Cocktails to Make at Home
Metropolitan
This cocktail is for people who enjoy drinks with character. With a distinct brandy flavor, it is recommended as an aperitif for occasions when you want to make the moment memorable.
Ingredients:
80 ml Cardenal Mendoza Clásico 40 ml sweet vermouth
1⁄2 teaspoon of regular syrup
A dash of Angostura bitters
How to prepare it: watch the video
Old Fashion
Here is a cocktail that triumphs through its simplicity. Rich in flavor, it makes our Cardenal Mendoza brandy, mixed with Angostura, one of our most sought-after drinks.
Ingredients:
80 ml Cardenal Mendoza Clásico A dash of Angostura Bitter
1 teaspoon of sugar
2 pieces of orange peel
2 cherries in syrup
A splash of lime-lemon soda
How to prepare it:
1. Pour the sugar into the glass you will be using.
2. Dissolve the sugar in soda water and Angostura bitters. Add the orange peel and cherries. 3. Mix the ingredients well.
4. Add the ‘Cardenal Mendoza Clásico’ brandy and shake well.
5. Add an ice cube, and finally, top with lime-lemon soda.
Sidecar
This is one of the best cocktails of all time. Easy to make (taking about 3 minutes), it remains a perfect introduction to the power of a well-crafted cocktail.
Ingredients:
60 ml Cardenal Mendoza Clásico 30 ml Cointreau orange liqueur 30 ml lemon juice
To garnish: Lemon zest
How to prepare it:
1. Pour the ingredients into the shaker with ice cubes. 2. Shake vigorously.
3. Serve it in the glass you’ve chosen to enjoy it.
4. Garnish with a little lemon zest.
As you can see, there are countless possible brandy-based combinations suitable for any audience. Here are our 3 favorite combinations, but there are many more!
So go ahead and let yourself be surprised—and get swept away on an adventure of unique flavors and sensations.
Have you tried any of the cocktails we’ve mentioned or other brandy-based cocktails?
