The first time I made a Cranberry Sangria, it wasn’t for a holiday dinner or a big party—it was for a quiet fall evening when I wanted something that felt celebratory but still comforting. I had half a bottle of red wine, a handful of cranberries left over from baking, and some oranges on the…
Rich, creamy, and as indulgent as your favorite dessert, the Brandy Alexander is a cocktail that has stood the test of time—not just for its flavor but for the way it bridges the gap between the bar and the dessert table. Made with brandy, crème de cacao, and cream, this after-dinner classic is decadence in…
Despite its name, the Japanese Cocktail isn’t from Japan, nor does it include any traditionally Japanese ingredients. But don’t let that mislead you—this elegant and enigmatic cocktail has stood the test of time since the 19th century. Its charm lies in its simplicity and subtle depth: smooth cognac, nutty orgeat syrup, and a dash of…
If you could bottle the feeling of a crisp fall evening—apple-sweet, spice-laced, and warming all the way down—you’d get something close to Mulled Cider Sangria. This cocktail brings together two beloved autumn traditions: spiced mulled cider and fruit-forward red wine sangria, combining them into one festive, shareable drink that’s as perfect for a holiday gathering…
The Milk Punch is a time-honored cocktail that’s equal parts comforting, elegant, and quietly potent. Originating in the 17th century and perfected in the American South, especially New Orleans, the Milk Punch has the texture of melted ice cream and the kick of a spirited breakfast. It’s typically made with brandy, milk (or cream), sugar,…
The Brandy Crusta is a cocktail with history in every drop—a drink that predates the Civil War and paved the way for modern sours like the Sidecar and Margarita. With its signature sugared rim, deep brandy base, and bright citrus notes, the Crusta is both elegant and theatrical, a throwback to an era of waistcoats,…
The Stinger Cocktail is one of those rare vintage gems that manages to be both elegant and slightly indulgent, delivering a two-ingredient combination of Cognac and crème de menthe that’s as surprising as it is satisfying. Known for its icy coolness and silky texture, the Stinger walks a fine line between aperitif and digestif, offering…
The Hennessy Sidecar is where French luxury meets cocktail tradition, delivering a drink that’s smooth, citrusy, and just edgy enough to feel timeless. A staple of refined bars and upscale lounges, the Sidecar is one of the few classics where Cognac takes center stage—and using Hennessy, with its warm, oak-aged depth, elevates the drink to…
The Brandy Manhattan takes everything we love about the original Manhattan and wraps it in a warmer, smoother, fruit-forward profile. Where the classic version leans into the spice and grain of rye or bourbon, this elegant variation swaps in brandy, bringing lush notes of dried fruit, caramel, and a gentle sweetness. It’s a refined, comforting…
When someone orders an Old Fashioned in Wisconsin, they’re not expecting a stiff pour of rye or bourbon stirred with bitters and a twist of citrus. No—this is Wisconsin’s version, a cocktail steeped in Midwestern tradition and unapologetic personality, typically made with brandy (not whiskey), muddled fruit, and finished with a splash of soda. Equal…