Brandy is a type of distilled spirit that is made from fermented fruit juice. It is a popular drink around the world and is often enjoyed as a digestif after a meal. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of brandies, their origin, and their associations.
Definitions
Brandies are distilled spirits that are made from fermented fruit juice, such as grapes, apples, or pears. The distillation process removes impurities and concentrates the alcohol content, resulting in a potent spirit. Brandy can be aged in oak barrels, which can impart flavors of vanilla, caramel, and spice.
Origin
The origins of brandies can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when alchemists were experimenting with distillation techniques. The word “brandy” comes from the Dutch word “brandewijn,” which means “burnt wine.” The Dutch were the first to use distillation to create a spirit from wine, and this technique spread throughout Europe.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, brandy is “a spirit distilled from wine or other fermented fruit juice.” Merriam-Webster defines brandy as “an alcoholic beverage distilled from wine or fermented fruit juice.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines brandy as “a strong alcoholic drink made from wine or fruit juice.”
Associations
Brandies are often associated with luxury and sophistication. They are commonly enjoyed as a digestif after a meal, and are often paired with a cigar or a piece of chocolate. Brandy is also a popular ingredient in cocktails, such as the Sidecar and the Brandy Alexander.
Synonyms
Synonyms for brandy include cognac, armagnac, and eau-de-vie. Cognac is a type of brandy that is made in the Cognac region of France, while armagnac is made in the Armagnac region of France. Eau-de-vie is a type of brandy that is made from a variety of fruits, including plums, cherries, and raspberries.
Antonyms
Antonyms for brandy include beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. Beer and wine are fermented beverages that do not undergo the distillation process. Non-alcoholic beverages, such as soda and juice, do not contain any alcohol.
The same root words
The word “brandy” comes from the Dutch word “brandewijn,” which means “burnt wine.” The word “wine” comes from the Latin word “vinum,” which means “wine.” The word “distillation” comes from the Latin word “distillare,” which means “to drip down.”
Example Sentences
- After dinner, we enjoyed a glass of brandy.
- The bartender mixed a Brandy Alexander for me.
- He prefers cognac to other types of brandy.
- The eau-de-vie had a strong fruity flavor.
- I don’t drink beer or wine, but I enjoy a glass of brandy on occasion.