Brandy SourCocktail recipe
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Brandy Sour is a bright, brandy-forward long drink that sits in the broad “sour” family, where spirit and citrus are balanced for an easy, refreshing sip. While “sours” as a style have been mixed for well over a century, this highball-leaning take feels more modern in its length and fizz, stretching the classic brandy-and-lemon pairing with a lemonade top-up for a lighter, more sessionable profile.
You’ll find the brandy’s warmth and fruit character takes the lead, with lemon juice cutting through to keep everything crisp and focused. The lemonade adds sweetness and sparkle, softening the lemon’s sharp edge and lifting the drink into a brighter, more refreshing register. A dash of aromatic bitters threads in gentle spice and herbal depth, tightening the finish and stopping the sweetness from feeling flat.
Serve it when you want something zesty but not overly sharp—ideal for warm afternoons, casual get-togethers, or as a simple pre-dinner drink. It suits you if you like citrusy highballs and want a gateway into brandy that feels light, bubbly, and approachable rather than heavy.
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Cocktail Colin says:
Brandy leads with warm, rounded fruitiness, sharpened by lemon juice and lifted into a breezy, sparkling sip by lemonade, while a dash of aromatic bitters adds a dry, spiced edge that lingers after each swallow. It works because the lemon’s bite and bubbly lemonade stretch the brandy without burying it, and the bitters keep the finish from turning too sweet—ideal for brandy fans who want a refreshing highball.
Method
How to make a Brandy Sour
- Brandy 60ml, Lemon juice 15ml, Lemonade Top up, Aromatic bitters Dash
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- Put ice in a tall glass
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- Pour in the bitters, swirl them around and then pour everything out
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- Add ice to the glass and pour in the brandy
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- Add lemon juice then top up with lemonade to serve
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FAQ's
What is the history of the Brandy Sour cocktail?
The Brandy Sour has a rich history, with variations tracing back to the 19th century. One popular version originates from Cyprus, where it was developed in the early 20th century as a non-alcoholic drink for the British colonial officers, later adding brandy to suit their taste. Its simplicity and refreshing nature have made it a classic in various regions, adapting locally available ingredients.
Can I replace lemonade with another ingredient in a Brandy Sour?
Yes, in a Brandy Sour, if lemonade is not available, you can use a combination of soda water and a bit more lemon juice to taste, or even a clear, mildly sweet sparkling water. The goal is to maintain the cocktail's refreshing and slightly tart profile.
What is the best way to serve a Brandy Sour?
The Brandy Sour is best served in a highball glass filled with ice to keep it chilled. Pouring the brandy, lemon juice, and angostura bitters over the ice followed by topping up with lemonade and lightly stirring ensures an even mix of flavors. Serving immediately helps retain its refreshing quality.
What food pairs well with a Brandy Sour?
A Brandy Sour, with its balance of tartness and sweetness, pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or even Mediterranean dishes. Its refreshing nature can cut through the richness of the food, making it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of meals, especially during warmer seasons.
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