Brandy Daisy in a coupe with crushed ice, berries and mint

Cocktail

Brandy Daisy

How to make a Brandy Daisy - the zesty 19th-century sour classic of cognac, lemon, orange liqueur and a splash of soda.

5 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
CoupeGlass
1Serving(s)

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The Brandy Daisy is a refreshing sour classic from the golden age of the American bar. Cognac meets lemon and orange liqueur, while a splash of soda makes the drink light and sparkling. Served over crushed ice, it is an elegant forerunner of many modern sours.

Instructions

  1. Add cognac, lemon juice, orange liqueur and sugar syrup to the shaker.
  2. Shake hard with ice cubes for about 15 seconds.
  3. Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
  4. Top up with a splash of soda.
  5. Garnish with berries and mint and serve.

Garnish: Berries and mint

Pro tip: Add the soda only at the end over the crushed ice, so the daisy stays fresh and sparkling.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is a daisy?

A daisy is a 19th-century sour variation: spirit, lemon, sweetness and a dash of soda, served over crushed ice.

Which brandy is suitable?

A mild cognac or brandy works best, as its fruit notes harmonise well with the lemon.

Can I use grenadine instead of orange liqueur?

Yes, the daisy was traditionally often sweetened with grenadine - it gives a fruitier, slightly reddish note.

Ingredients

  • Cognac (brandy)5 cl
  • Lemon juice2 cl
  • Orange liqueur (Triple Sec)1 cl
  • Sugar syrup1 bar spoon
  • Soda2 cl
  • Crushed iceas needed