Brandy
The history of brandy is long and storied. Harking back to the very start of the 1300s, this time-honoured spirit was first distilled as a medicine in France and actually literally called the water of life (l’eau de vie).
Today this amber-hued spirit is still popular around the globe, forming the base of amazing cocktails that range from refreshing summer sippers with lashings of mint and lemon, to beautifully layered classics that add a little warmth in winter. Here is a selection of our favourite brandy cocktails for you to make and enjoy at home.
From Cognac to Kirsch: Understanding the Many Types of Brandy
Brandy is one of those versatile spirits that wears many interesting hats. Made from various fermented fruit juices, brandy is all about distilling the essence of fruit into something warm, complex, and sip-worthy. So, if you’ve ever wondered what brandy is, or you’re curious about the different types of brandy out there, you’re in the […]
What Is Calvados? A Deep Dive Into the Iconic French Apple Brandy
The warm aroma of baked apples, a hint of vanilla, and a whisper of spice… Calvados is a snippet of Normandy’s rich heritage captured in a glass. Smooth yet complex, this French apple brandy comes to the party with lush layers of fruit, oak, and caramel. A spirit with centuries of tradition, Calvados is crafted […]
15 Brandy Cocktails: Classic Recipes and Modern Twists
Brandy cocktails are a versatile delight, whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a brandy enthusiast looking to shake things up. From timeless classics like the Sidecar to modern gems like the French Twist, this collection offers a full spectrum of flavours. Perfect for dinner parties, casual gatherings, or cosy nights in, these recipes celebrate brandy […]
Armagnac vs Cognac: Understanding the Differences Between Two Iconic French Brandies
In the heart of Western France, the regions of Cognac and Armagnac are celebrated for producing some of the world’s finest grape brandies. Situated close together—Cognac along the Atlantic coast, just north of Bordeaux, and Armagnac a scenic hour-and-a-half drive to the south—these gorgeous regions craft two distinct styles of brandy. Let’s delve into the […]
15 Delicious Holiday Food & Cocktail Pairings to Serve this Year
Get ready to jingle your taste buds and deck the halls with truly impressive snacks and sips, friend! In this festive guide, we’ll sleigh the art of cocktail and food pairings for Christmas, unwrapping a symphony of flavours to make your holiday celebrations merry, tasty, and bright. It’s time to toast, taste, and be cheekily […]
How to Clarify Cocktails: Easy Recipes & Expert Tips
When it comes to mastering the art of clarified cocktails, the most important thing to realise is that there is a fair amount of magical, science-y things involved. Clarification involves removing impurities and cloudiness from a cocktail to achieve a crystal-clear appearance without sacrificing flavour, and while it’s tricky, it’s also 100% awesome. This […]
7 Boozy Puddings to Make This Holiday Season
What are boozy puddings? There’s a lot to worry about during the holidays and a lot to get done. Before you know it, the holiday is over. And because you are the hostess with the mostess (they all say it, so it must be true), you are left exhausted and desperately counting the days you have […]
How to Use Starch (Aquafaba, Rice & More) in Cocktails
Using starch in cocktails is a simple but innovative technique that can add sweetness, body, texture, and opacity to mixed drinks, resulting in truly unique and delicious creations. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, starch washing is a great way to experiment and expand your cocktail repertoire. Here’s what you need to […]
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Cocktail Cherries
Cocktail cherries are more than just a sweet treat—they’re the cherry on top that elevates your drink to the next level! Especially in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, the right cherry adds a burst of flavour and a touch of elegance. Whether you’re a fan of tart, sweet, or boozy, choosing the perfect cherry […]
23 Best Cocktail Bars in Chicago to Visit in 2025
The Mixer has ventured into the Windy City to find the best cocktail bars in Chicago, and boy what a ride it’s been! From the historic charm of Old Town’s classics to the swanky vibes of River North, The Mixer UK is takin’ you on a boozy tour through the top 23 bars that make […]
How to Host a Rugby World Cup Party at Home (2025)
Getting ready to host a Rugby World Cup party or two? So are we! The RWC is more than just a sporting event; it is also a celebration of rugby culture. The tournament is a wonderful showcase of the sport’s traditions and values and is a great opportunity to learn more about the game. Of […]
How to Make Clear Ice Cubes at Home
Get ready to shake up your cocktail game, because we’re here to spill the secrets on how to make clear ice like a pro mixologist. Say goodbye to cloudy cubes and hello to the hippest, clearest ice cubes in town. Clear ice is the crown jewel of mixology magic. It’s the kind of ice that […]