Brandy

The Case of the Missing Cask: A Spirits Geek Mystery

Where has my barrel pick gone? Also: A new German wine law and a sense place. And: Is cabernet franc the new signature grape of the Finger Lakes?

Jan 15 •

Will 2025 (Finally) Be Brandy's Year?

I remain optimistic, but we need to start drinking and talking about smaller brands. Including my artisan picks for Cognac, Armagnac, and Calvados for…

Dec 20, 2024 •

If Ever A Situation Calls For Digestifs, It's Thanksgiving

My annual pitch to give eau de vie and schnapps a try. With 11 bottle recommendations for the holiday.

Nov 21, 2024 •

Is Calvados Finally...Sexy?

I've been telling you about my favorite apple brandy for years. Maybe during our Brat Summer you'll finally embrace it. Plus: 15 bottle recommendations!

Jun 27, 2024 •

Is Armagnac The New Bourbon? Or Is It The New Mezcal?

An exercise in reading beyond the headline. Plus, my picks and tasting notes on 16 bottles for your holiday splurge.

Nov 10, 2023 •

This Is Barrel Hunting Season

If you've been interested in seeing what high-end brandy is all about, it's time for a holiday splurge.

Nov 8, 2023 •

Channeling My Inner Artie Bucco

Inspired by the world's oldest brandy, I went deep on an Armagnac pilgrimage.

Aug 15, 2023 •

Is This The Year We Finally Fall In Love With Brandy?

Is Armagnac really the "next mezcal"? Will Calvados ever find love? Among other hopeful questions from Bar Convent Brooklyn.

Jun 16, 2023 •

On Watching the Super Bowl in Cognac

What a football game translated into French can tell us about explaining foreign concepts to normal people.

Feb 14, 2023 •

Making The Case For Schnapps (Once Again)

Listen now (25 min) | Schnapps Week continues! Listen to our classic, epic podcast tasting of schnapps and eau de vie, read my tasting guide, and enjoy…

Jan 27, 2023 •

25:21

On Being a Lover of Eau de Vie in the Age of Fireball

Thoughts on fine spirits during a week when the maker of Pappy Van Winkle is sued for fraud for its ubiquitous, low-end cinnamon swill.

Jan 24, 2023 •

Armagnac, Before It Becomes Unaffordable

My guide to Armagnac, with my top-10 bottle picks, and my annual plea to splurge on fine Armagnac. You'll wish you did when the bourbon bros drive up…

Nov 8, 2022 •

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