Brandied Port

Pro tips

• Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink cold longer without excessive dilution.
• Use fresh lemon juice, not bottled, to balance the sweetness of the maraschino and port.
• Shake vigorously with ice for 10-12 seconds to properly chill and aerate the spirits.
• Strain without ice into the coupe glass to avoid watering down the finished drink.

Substitutions

• Tawny port → Ruby port (fruitier, less oxidized character)
• Mr. Boston Five Star Brandy → VS Cognac (smoother, slightly higher quality)
• Maraschino → Dry vermouth, ½ tsp (less sweetness, more herbal note)

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · coupe or cocktail glass

Can I substitute the tawny port with ruby port?

Yes, ruby port works as a substitute, though it will be fruitier and slightly less oxidized than tawny. The drink will be bolder in flavor.

Should this cocktail be served hot or cold?

Brandied Port is typically served cold, shaken with ice and strained into a glass, unless you prefer it as a warm drink during winter months.

What glass should I use?

Serve in a coupe or cocktail glass for an elegant presentation, or a rocks glass if served over ice.

Can I make this drink ahead?

Mix the ingredients fresh to order for best flavor. Pre-batching may cause dilution or flavor separation.

What type of brandy works best?

Five Star or other mid-range cognac-style brandies work well; avoid very cheap brandy as it will overpower the port's nuance.