Brandy is a spirit distilled from fermented fruit juice—most commonly wine grapes, but also apples, pears, or other fruits—then typically aged in oak barrels to develop warm, smooth, and complex flavors. Traditional grape brandy styles include Cognac and Armagnac from France, while other countries produce unique versions such as Pisco (Peru/Chile) and American craft brandies. Brandy can range from light and fruity to deep and rich, with aromas of dried fruit, spice, vanilla, and caramel, especially when well-aged. Often enjoyed as a digestif, brandy is also used in classic cocktails like the Sidecar and the Brandy Alexander, and remains a cornerstone of both traditional European spirits and modern mixology.