Learn me some brandy

Cafe Society
1

I went to a Bobby Burns party the other week, and, in preparation for getting up to belt out “A Scotch Drink,” I poured about four fingers from a decanter of what I assumed was a very deep amber scotch over a few ice cubes.

Well, it was the best damn tasting scotch I’ve ever had in my life. Except is wasn’t scotch - it was brandy, as I learned from the host several minutes later.

I only have the vaguest notion about what I like in terms of liquor - mostly Tullamore Dew and vodka martinis. But that brandy was goooood. Peppery yet smooth. Once the ice started to melt, it went down like candy.

I’d like to get some more. Maybe start by buying a middle of the fifth.

So, any recommendations?

Other suggestions?

Am I a complete barbarian for thinking that it tastes good on the rocks with a twist?

Cheers.

2

To answer your last question first: Yes.

Any clue what brandy you drank? Because there’s only a million of them out there. They range from some divine cognacs to even-diviner armagnacs to you name it. Personally, I’d start off with Presidente, a Mexican brandy that is one of the world’s best sellers. Then try E&J Gallo’s XO, which is my prefered house brandy. Then, your wallet is your limit.

3

Brandy is distilled from grapes, so, like wine, the variety of flavor is pretty wide. My personal favorite is Gran Duque de Alba, from Spain. It has a hint of sweetness that I love, especially while enjoying a cigar. It is expensive however (about $45 for a 750 ml bottle,) so I drink it sparingly.

4

Avoid grappa.