B & B

The B & B (Brandy and Bénédictine) is one of the most straightforward and enduring mixtures in the cocktail canon. It is a rich, herbal, and warming drink that highlights the complex sweetness of the 27-herb French liqueur.

Key Takeaways

• Simplicity: Only two ingredients in equal measure.
• Warming: High alcohol content and herbal spice make it a cold-weather favorite.
• Versatile: Can be served neat in a snifter or on the rocks.
• Primary Glassware: Brandy snifter or rocks glass.

The History of the B & B

The combination of Brandy and Bénédictine became popular at the 21 Club in New York during the 1930s. It was so successful that the Bénédictine company began bottling a pre-mixed version (B & B Liqueur) in 1937. It was a staple of the 1961 IBA list and remains a benchmark for simple spirit-and-liqueur cocktails.

Ingredient Definition and Selection

Brandy (Cognac)

While any good brandy will work, a VSOP Cognac is the traditional choice. Its oak-driven vanilla and dried fruit notes provide the perfect foundation for the liqueur.

Bénédictine D.O.M.

A French liqueur first created in the 19th century (though claiming a 16th-century monastic origin). It is sweet, honeyed, and flavored with a secret blend of 27 plants and spices.

Preparation and Best Practices

1. Served Neat: For the most traditional experience, serve equal parts in a brandy snifter. The shape of the glass allows the heat from the palm of your hand to warm the spirits, releasing the aromatic oils.
2. Served on Rocks: If you prefer a lighter, more refreshing version, build the drink over a single large ice cube. This slowly dilutes the sweetness and chills the high-proof mixture.
3. The “Float” Technique: Some bartenders prefer to pour the Bénédictine first and gently float the Brandy on top, allowing the drinker to experience the components separately before they naturally mix.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 190 kcal per serving.
• Carbohydrates: 10g (from Bénédictine).
• Sugar: 10g.