Cocktail
Brandy Crusta
How to make a Brandy Crusta - the historic New Orleans classic of cognac, maraschino and lemon with its signature sugar rim and lemon spiral.
7 minPrep time
advancedDifficulty
CoupeGlass
1Serving(s)
The Brandy Crusta is one of the oldest garnished cocktails and dates back to mid-19th-century New Orleans. Its hallmarks are the wide sugar rim and the artful lemon spiral inside the glass. Cognac, maraschino and lemon make for an elegant, fruity-sweet drink with historic flair.
Instructions
- Moisten the rim of the coupe with lemon and dip it in sugar.
- Place a long lemon spiral inside the glass.
- Add cognac, maraschino, Triple Sec, lemon juice and bitters with ice to the shaker.
- Shake for about 12 seconds and strain into the prepared glass.
- Serve with the lemon spiral.
Garnish: Long lemon spiral
Pro tip: The signature sugar rim is part of the Brandy Crusta - moisten the rim with lemon and gently turn it in fine sugar.
Frequently asked questions
How old is the Brandy Crusta?
The Brandy Crusta was created around 1850 in New Orleans and is considered one of the earliest garnished cocktails in history.
What is special about this drink?
The wide sugar rim and the long lemon spiral that lines the glass are its defining features.
Can I use another brandy instead of cognac?
Yes, cognac is traditional, but a good brandy works just as well.
Ingredients
- Cognac5 cl
- Maraschino liqueur1 cl
- Triple Sec (e.g. Cointreau)1 cl
- Fresh lemon juice1.5 cl
- Angostura Bitters1 dash
- Lemon spiral and sugar for the rim1 piece
