Brandy or Cognac?

All Cognac is brandy, but not all brandy is Cognac. While brandy is a spirit distilled from grapes (or other fruits), Cognac is distilled from specific grapes, from a specific region, before being carefully aged and blended. You can use either in this recipe, but Cognac can be expensive, and we find St. Remy VSOP Brandy (LCBO 8888, $27.20) is perfect. For a spicier variation, try using Metaxa Seven Star Brandy (LCBO 116038, $31.95); the distinct blend of botanicals makes a uniquely flavoured version.