Raynal Napoléon VSOP Brandy

Raynal Napoléon VSOP combines eaux-de-vie sourced from French wine regions and aged in French oak. Almond, walnut and candied-fruit notes lead to a ginger-accented finish. Try it over ice, or use it in a Sidecar with fresh lemon and orange liqueur measured to taste.

This listing is for the 750 ml size. At a 1-ounce cocktail measure, that volume provides approximately 25 pours before allowing for spills or a different recipe.

Begin with a small pour in a glass with room for the aroma. Try it at room temperature, then add a few drops of water or an ice cube if you prefer. Keep the glass away from a heat source, since warming it aggressively can make the alcohol more prominent. A simple serve gives you a useful reference before you add citrus, liqueur or a sweeter mixer.

For a Sidecar variation, shake 1 ounce of brandy with half an ounce each of orange liqueur and fresh lemon juice, then strain into a chilled glass. Taste before deciding on a sugar rim. For a longer drink, try soda water over ice with a citrus twist. Choose one mixer or garnish at first so you can tell which element changes the balance and repeat the version you enjoy.