In the world of liquor, brandy and whiskey are quite popular spirits. They are cherished worldwide for their unique flavours. Although they are different and have different tastes, people do compare brandy vs whiskey and which is better. We think both of them have a separate fan base and it depends on what you like in terms of flavour, Aroma and sensory experience.
Today our article is about what is common and not so common in both liquors. Let’s explore more.
Brandy Vs Whiskey
First, you need to know how each liquor is made. Brandy has grape juice as a base ingredient. Grape Juice is fermented and distilled to make wine and different fruits like pears, apples and plums can also be used to create variant taste palates. This wine is then distilled in pot stills to produce brandy. Brandy is then aged in wooden casks for decades. Older the better.
Whiskey, on the other hand, has grain mash as a basic ingredient. other grains like Barley, Corn, Rye and Wheat can also be used to create different palates. The fermented mash is then distilled and aged in wooden barrels to create whiskey. The wooden barrels used are mostly oak because it affect the taste of whiskey.
Brandy vs Whiskey In Terms Of Flavor Profiles
Brandy is a centuries-old spirit and has fruity flavours. Whiskey, often seen as a symbol of craftsmanship and tradition has various flavours like caramel, vanilla, oak and spices. The taste palate of brandy is sweet and has hints of caramel vanilla or spices from the ageing process. It is loved for its smooth and velvety mouthfeel with a warm finish.
Whiskey, on the other hand, has smoky notes and a crisp mouthfeel. The vanilla, caramel, dried fruit, spices, and sometimes smoke aroma are so magical that they can take you to places. Brandy has a sophisticated vibe and conveys luxury whereas Whiskey is used on ceremonial occasions.
Moreover, the alcohol content in Brandy typically ranges from 35% to 60% alcohol by volume (ABV). Whereas, the alcohol content in Whiskey usually ranges from 40% to 50% ABV.
Brandy Vs Whiskey In Terms Of Variety
Both liquors have different varieties based on the type of fruit or grain used and the process involved. Some commonly loved brandies are Cognac. Armagnac, Calvados, and Fruit Brandy. They have high demand because of their rich and complex flavours and distinctive aromas.
Some loved whiskey liquors are Scotch, Bourbon, Rye whiskey and Irish Whiskey. They are different as Scotch is produced in Scotland and uses grain as a base ingredient. Bourbon is an American whiskey made with corn, Rye whiskey is produced with Rye and has a spicy flavour whereas, Irish whiskey has a comparatively smooth and light flavour.
What Are The Risks And Benefits Involved?
Both Brandy and Whiskey are liquors and must be consumed in moderation. There are myths that they have a good impact on the heart when you consume them wisely. However, we have never seen a doctor recommending alcohol to cure heart conditions. So be wise. Alcohol is alcohol and it may have less intense adverse effects but that doesn’t mean it is healthy or a cure for anything.
If you consume them without any safety limit, they can cause liver diseases and result in addiction which is bad in itself.
Alcohol Pairing With Food
Food pairings enhance your liquor experience and how you pair both drinks can very much affect what would you like to have. Brandy goes well with Cheese, chocolate, desserts and nuts. The velvety texture of brandy complements the smooth sweet flavour of the above ingredients. These ingredients also bring out certain notes in liquor. For example, nuts can bring out caramel notes in brandy.
Whiskey goes well with grilled meats, smoked fish, cheese and chocolate. The smoky flavour of whiskey complements these foods.
You can also make different cocktails using both liquors. Using Brandy, Sidecar, metropoliton and Brandy Alexander are commonly loved cocktails. On the other hand, Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Whiskey Sour are the best cocktails from Whiskey.
Brandy Vs Whiskey- Which Is Better?
Both the Liquors are equally loved and enjoyed worldwide. If you like more fruity notes, go for brandy and if you are a fan of smoky and grain-based liquors, whiskey is your deal. We cannot say, one is better than the other. They are just different and you can have whatever you like.
Brandy is more of a casual drink whereas whiskey is both for special occasions and casual sipping. So whatever you choose, all we say is ” cheers”!
