Calories:150
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol:14%
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 7, 2024
The Brandy and Tonic is a simple yet refreshing cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades. It's a twist on the classic gin and tonic, substituting gin with brandy for a warmer, richer flavor profile.
The Brandy and Tonic is a harmonious blend of sweet and bitter, with the warmth of brandy shining through. The tonic water adds a crisp effervescence that balances the drink, making it neither too strong nor too light. It's aromatic, with a subtle woodiness from the brandy, and has a refreshing aftertaste.
The brandy is the soul of this cocktail. Giving you 2 oz (that's about 60mL, for my metric friends) provides a sturdy base without steering your taste buds into a brandy overdrive. Too little brandy, and you're practically drinking adult lemonade; too much, and you might as well be warming by a fireplace with a snifter of it, neat. If brandy's not your thing, try a good dark rum for a sweeter, molasses-touched alternative.
Why 4 oz of tonic water? It's all about balance—enough to mingle perfectly with the brandy and not overwhelm it or make the drink too diluted. Skip the tonic, and you'll miss out on the cocktail's refreshing fizziness. But if tonic's too bitter for you, a splash of soda water might do the trick, although you'll lose some complexity.
This little citrusy ninja adds a zesty pop and a hint of acidity, cutting through the sweetness to achieve cocktail nirvana. No lemon could mean a flatter tasting experience and a lost opportunity to play with the brandy's fruity profile. Consider a lime wedge if you're feeling adventurous, which will make the drink a tad sharper.
Ice keeps your drink cool, obviously, but it also mellows the brandy as it melts, muddling the flavors together into a harmonious chill. Nobody likes a warm cocktail, unless you're intentionally sipping a hot toddy. No ice? Prepare for a stronger flavor and a potentially less enjoyable sip. You could also use frozen fruit like berries for an extra flavor twist and to keep things cold.
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Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
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Yes, while it can be enjoyed year-round, the refreshing qualities of tonic water make Brandy and Tonic a suitable choice for summer.
A lowball glass, also known as an Old Fashioned glass, is the traditional choice for serving Brandy and Tonic.
Absolutely, lime can be a zesty alternative to lemon that adds a different citrus note to the cocktail.
Look for a brandy that has a balance of fruit and spice notes which will compliment the bitterness of the tonic water. Aging and regional characteristics can also influence your choice.
The strength of Brandy and Tonic depends on the brandy-to-tonic ratio. The standard recipe is not overly strong, as the tonic dilutes the brandy.
Certainly, experimenting with different types of tonic water, such as those infused with botanicals or fruit flavors, can give this cocktail a unique twist.
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The Aurora Jungle Juice has a sweet and fruity taste, with a hint of tartness from the lime. The combination of flavors creates a refreshing and well-balanced drink that is perfect for those who enjoy tropical and fruity cocktails.
The English Highball is a refreshing, effervescent, and slightly sweet cocktail with a hint of bitterness from the tonic water. The botanicals in the gin provide a complex and aromatic flavor profile, while the lemon adds a touch of tartness.
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