Brandy is a distilled spirit made from wine. Most examples are aged in wooden barrels and have a color ranging from light gold to copper to tawny. They are generally in the 35% to 65% alcoholic range.

While brandies are produced in dozens of countries, the most famous examples are Cognac and Armagnac from France. Cognac is produced via a pot still is made with an alembic still, which produced a brandy with a lower percentage of alcohol. Both are categorized according to the length of the aging period (V.S., V.S.O.P., et al); Armagnacs can also be vintage dated.

Spain also produces outstanding brandies, especially those from the Jerez district. Italy is another home to notable brandies made from wine grapes; these are aged for several years in oak and are not to be confused with grappa.

Most wine-producing nations make excellent brandy, including Greece, Germany and South Africa. Brandy is a large business in the United States as well; most examples are quite good, but somewhat commercial in quality, although a few producers do craft artisan versions.

Brandies such as these are meant for after dinner sipping, preferably in a wine glass or snifter.