Champs Elysees

This delicious brandy cocktail seemed to be a favorite of every Boston bartender this past summer. It is quite refreshing, but not so summery that it can't be enjoyed any time of the year.

1 1/2 oz Brandy
3/4 oz Yellow Chartreuse
3/4 oz Lemon Juice
1 dash Angostura

Combine in an ice-filled glass and shake for 10-15 seconds. Strain into a cocktail glass.

Enjoy.

Brandy Alexander

A strong step up from a White Russian (sorry, Dude), this drink is the definitive dessert drink.

3/4 oz Brandy
3/4 oz Creme de Cacao (Dark)
3/4 oz Cream

Combine in an ice-filled glass and shake for 25-30 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass and sprinkle with grated nutmeg.

Enjoy.

Vieux Carré

Along with the sazerac and the Ramos gin fizz, this is one of the essential New Orleans cocktails. A sweeter, refreshing alternative to the sazerac, with all of the same gentility. This is Ted "Dr. Cocktail" Haigh's recipe.

1 oz Rye
1 oz Brandy
1 oz Sweet Vermouth
1 bar spoon Bénédictine
2 dashes Angostura
2 dashes Peychaud

Combine in an ice-filled glass and stir for 15-20 seconds. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass and garnish with a lemon twist.

Enjoy.

Scorched Earth

I love Cynar, and this is the best drink I've found with it.

1 1/2 oz Brandy
1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
1/2 oz Cynar

Combine in an ice-filled glass and stir for 15-20 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass and garnish with a flamed lemon peel.

Enjoy.

Sidecar

I like my drinks on the sour side, so this is not the traditional recipe. Still, a great drink any way you pour it.

2 oz Brandy
1 oz Triple Sec
1 oz Lemon Juice

Combine in an ice-filled glass, and shake for 10-15 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass and garnish with a lemon peel.

Enjoy.