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The brown spirit is a versatile drink known for its strength, diverse flavours and lingering finish

When you think of brandy, cognac or armagnac immediately come to mind as the expression is traditionally made from distilled fermented grapes. However, unlike other spirits (such as whiskies) which are made according to exacting rules and regulations, distillers have more freedom to create brandy by using other fruits such as apples, peaches and apricots. These fruits are fermented, distilled in copper stills to concentrate the alcohol content, and aged in wood barrels to infuse the liquid with notes of vanilla, and cinnamon, among many others.

A brandy typically boasts fruity and sweeter flavours, making it a truly versatile drink—you can drink it neat, with ice, or as part of a cocktail. No matter how you enjoy it, there is a brandy that will surely suit your taste. Here are five to get you started.

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1. Emperador Light

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Emperador Light Brandy
Above Emperador Light Brandy

Created in 2010, Emperador Light is considered one of the world’s most popular brandies with a strong presence in countries like the Philippines, Singapore, Australia and the UK.

The brandy is made according to the Emperador group’s exacting standards—high-quality grapes from its vineyards in Toledo, Spain are used as the main ingredient. The fruits are distilled and laid to rest in wood barrels for years and blended with a neutral spirit from sugar cane to enhance the taste. Bottled at 55 proof, the golden amber expression boasts beautiful aromas of raisins and peaches and a delicate wood-almond finish.

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2. Fundador Supremo 18

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Above Fundador Supremo 18

As the name implies, this brandy reigns supreme in the world of spirits and boasts impressive accolades like the 2019 Best Brandy in the World at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). This ultra-premium brandy is made with high-quality grapes from Spain, which are distilled and aged in casks that previously contained 18-year-old Oloroso Sherry. This method gives the spirit its beautiful amber colour and enticing notes of vanilla, nuts and dried fruits.

3. Fundador Solera Reserva

From the Emperador group comes Fundador, the popular Spanish brandy that was the first brand to be marketed with a ‘Brandy de Jerez’ origin. This is given to F&B brands which acquired their notable characterises from their place of origin. In Fundador’s case, it’s produced and aged in the “Sherry Triangle” wine-producing region of Spain.

Having said that, this brandy is made with airen and palomino grapes harvested in the vineyards of Pago de Macharnudo. The distillate undergoes a lengthy maturing process in special sherry-soaked Solera casks.

Its maturing process results in its enticing old gold hue, with a bouquet reminiscent of wood that previously held sherry wines. It’s quite smooth on the palate, making it a perfect accompaniment to chocolates, pastries and even spicy foods.

4. McDowell's No.1

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The Indian-style brandy is made from  grapes that are distilled then blended with a more mature grape spirit. After a lengthy maturation in wood barrels, the liquid turns vibrant gold with delicious aromas and characters of vanilla and honey. We recommend trying it neat, so you can fully appreciate its well-rounded body, fruity sweetness, and long and warm finish.

5. Laird‘s 86 Proof Applejack

This Applejack apple brandy is crafted by one of the oldest distilleries in the United States, with a history dating back to 1698. Each bottle is made with 17 pounds of ripe apples, which are distilled and aged for four years in charred oak casks. Bottled at 86 per cent proof (hence, the name), the copper-hued expression is redolent of baked apples, vanilla, caramel and wood. Best consumed when mixed in cocktails like Manhattan and Old Fashioned.

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6. Asbach Uralt Weinbrand

This German equivalent of French cognac is made from distilled grape wine that is matured in Limousin and German oak casks. Typically lighter than the French cognac, and with an ABV of 36 per cent, the brandy has enticing aromas and characters of vanilla, caramel and honey that are interwoven with sweet and peppery notes. Smooth and warm, you can have it on its own or as the base of cocktails.

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