The History of Brandy

Hats off to the Dutch! For it’s largely thanks to Dutch merchants that we have brandy today. Back in the seventeenth century in order both to preserve the quality of wine over a long journey by sea, and to be able to transport more of it at one time, the …

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B & B Cocktail: Benedictine

Of course it all started with a monk. After all they’ve had a hand in the creation of many of our most popular spirits and liqueurs; Benedictine is no different. The original recipe, devised as a tonic by a Benedictine monk at the start of the sixteenth century, was lost …

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Singapore Sling

There are just two things about the Singapore Sling that everyone seems to agree on: where it was invented – Raffles Hotel in Singapore – and by whom – Mr. Ngiam Tong Boon, the bartender. It dates from some time between 1910 and 1915, and was originally designed as a …

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How to Make a Stinger

Described as a liquid after-dinner mint, the Stinger goes down well with chocolate – but then what doesn’t? The Stinger’s origins are uncertain but it’s mentioned in a 1917 guide and, like other cocktails, became more popular in the States in the 1920s, during the time of Prohibition. As with …

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Between the Sheets

Probably making its first appearance in Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, in the 1930s, Between the Sheets is a beautifully balanced drink – when made properly. It’s a variation of the Side-car cocktail and was said to have been invented by Harry MacElhone who simply replaced some of the …

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Quick Brandy Cocktails

Bringing together a few brandy cocktails for you to try. Enjoy! Brandy Highball 2 oz brandy Soda water Fill a highball glass with crushed ice. Pour in the brandy and top with soda water. Stir together. Garnish with a slice of lemon. Horse’s Neck The name of this cocktail is …

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A Sidecar Cocktail

The Sidecar was invented in a bar in Paris during World War I for a customer. The customer was an American Army captain and was driven to and from the bar in a motorcycle sidecar, hence its name. The Sidecar was first introduced to London by MacGarry, an ever popular …

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Brandy Eggnog

The eggnog tradition began in Europe as an adaptation of the various milk and wine concoctions often served at social events. During the 17th century they would use eggnog as a toast to good health. It was often consumed by the wealthy or upper class as milk and eggs were …

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Brandy Alexander

The Brandy Alexander is a creamy brandy based cocktail, extremely popular during the early 20th century and is ideal to serve as an after dinner cocktail. The Recipe This recipe serves 1 2 measure brandy 1 measure crème de cacao (dark and white) 1 measure double cream Garnish: grated nutmeg …

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Great Cocktails