For all the wine and spirit enthusiasts out there, one of the most exciting things is finding the perfect pairing for your drink. Often, we focus too much on the drink itself, losing sight of how important the food pairing can be.
Today, we will discuss about one of the most beloved spirits in the world, brandy, and the best food to pair with brandy.
Brandy is a complex drink with sweet, floral, and fruity notes, and it can be drunk on its own, but pairing it with the right food can elevate the whole tasting experience.
In this article, we’ll explore the best food to pair with brandy and how to bring out the best in this classic spirit.
Best Food to Pair with Brandy
1. Cheese
When it comes to pairing brandy with cheese, you can’t go wrong with a good classic pairing like Gouda or cheddar. Their nutty and buttery flavors complement and bring out the caramel and vanilla notes in the brandy.
Blue cheese is another excellent pairing, as it brings a contrast of sharpness and saltiness that elevates the richness of the brandy.
2. Chocolate
Our favorite dessert is also an excellent match with brandy. The spirit’s smooth and warming finish brings out the sweetness and creaminess of the chocolate, while the cocoa notes in the chocolate complement the rich characteristics of the brandy.
Whether it’s dark chocolate or milk chocolate, the pairing offers an indulgent and upscale dessert experience.
3. Roasted meats
The rich flavor profile of brandy makes it an ideal choice with roasted meats. The smokiness and depth of flavors in meats like beef, lamb, or venison compliment the brandy’s natural sweetness and nuttiness.
A beef fillet with a side of creamy horseradish sauce can be perfectly complemented with a side of brandy.
4. Fruits and nuts
Fruits and nuts like figs, grapes, almonds, and hazelnuts have a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with brandy.
The subtle complexity of the spirit enhances the fruit’s flavor, while the fruit, in turn, balances the brandy’s richness.
A small plate of dried fruits and nuts served alongside a glass of brandy is an excellent choice for an after-dinner snack.
5. Spicy dishes
The fruit and oak notes of brandy are an excellent match for spicy foods. The spirit’s warm and bold finish enhances the heat in spicy dishes while the sweetness of brandy balances the hotness.
A spicy curry, chili or Mexican dish are perfect examples of dishes that pair well with brandy.
6. Desserts
Brandy makes an excellent companion for sweet treats, especially those with a warm and comforting aroma. For example, try pairing brandy with bread pudding, apple pie, or cinnamon rolls.
The sweet, creamy, and buttery flavors of desserts create a harmonious balance with the rich and fruity notes of the brandy.
For a new twist, try brandy with crepes, bananas foster, or baked apples. These pairings will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Discover More: Best Desserts and Wine Pairings
7. Seafood
Brandy complements seafood dishes like lobster, scallops, and shrimp scampi perfectly.
The light, delicate flavors of the seafood have a subtle sweetness alongside the salinity, which contrasts well with the brandy’s bold and woody notes.
Consider pairing grilled salmon with a glass of brandy, and you will realize why this pairing is a go-to for many food and wine lovers.
8. Coffee
Brandy pairs flawlessly with coffee, creating a perfect ending to your meal.
For a classic pairing, try a glass of brandy with a cup of coffee or espresso. The sweetness of the brandy complements the bitterness of the coffee, making for an ideal pairing to end your meal.
Or take your pairing to the next level by adding a touch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to your coffee and brandy.
9. Pears
The sweet, juicy flavor of a ripe pear pairs well with the warm undertones of brandy.
10. Cigar
If you enjoy a good cigar, a strong, full-bodied brandy can be the perfect match.
11. Figs
The sweetness of figs pairs well with the smooth finish of brandy.
12. Duck
The gamey flavor of duck is balanced by the smooth, warming notes of brandy.
13. Salted caramel
The combination of sweet and salty in salted caramel brings out the complexities of brandy.
14. Salami
The spice and richness of salami pair well with a strong, full-bodied brandy.
Explore More: Best Food to Pair with Burgundy Wine
15. Olives
The briny, salty flavor of olives complements the warmth and depth of brandy.
16. Blueberries
The sweet, tart flavor of blueberries makes them a great complement to brandy.
17. Dark, leafy greens
The bitter notes of dark greens like kale or arugula pair well with the warmth of brandy.
18. Pate
The richness and complexity of pate make it a great match for the bold flavors of brandy.
19. Lobster
The sweet, delicate flavor of lobster is balanced by the depth of brandy.
20. Cherries
The sweet, tart flavor of cherries pairs well with the fruity notes in brandy.
21. Beef bourguignon
The hearty, savory flavors of beef bourguignon complement the warm, rich notes of brandy perfectly.
Find Out More: Best Wine for Beef Bourguignon
Wrap Up
Brandy is a spirit that has a depth of flavor quite unlike any other. Pairing it with delicious food can bring out the best in both the spirit and the dish.
The best way to find the perfect pairing is by experimenting with different dishes and brandy types until you find a taste that you like.
Whether you prefer meat dishes, seafood, desserts, or cheese, it’s essential to take your time and soak up the rich flavors and aromas of your brandy and meal.
These classic combinations are just the start of the wonderful pairings you can enjoy with brandy.
Remember, experimenting with different flavors and dishes is the key to discovering new and incredible pairings.
FAQs
What flavor doesn’t go well with brandy?
According to many bartenders and brandy experts, the flavor that doesn’t go well with brandy is mint.
The reason is that mint tends to overpower the delicate flavor of brandy, which is why it’s not commonly used in brandy-based cocktails.
Additionally, the cooling sensation of mint clashes with the warm and complex notes of brandy, resulting in an unpleasant taste experience.
While there are a variety of flavors that pair well with brandy, including citrus, honey, and cinnamon, it’s best to avoid mint when mixing drinks with this beloved spirit.
So, next time you’re reaching for the mint leaves in your cocktail shaker, consider swapping it out for a different herb or spice that will complement the unique taste profile of brandy.
