Brandy Sour
đšBrandy Sour Cocktail Recipe: A Taste of Northern Cyprus
If youâve ever visited Northern Cyprus, chances are youâve heard of the Brandy Sour Cocktail. More than just a refreshing drink, this iconic cocktail is considered the national drink of Cyprus, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Light, citrusy, and perfectly balanced, the Brandy Sour is a must-try whether youâre relaxing by the sea in Kyrenia or hosting a summer gathering at home.
In this blog, weâll share the authentic Brandy Sour recipe from Northern Cyprus, explore its fascinating history, and give you tips on how to make it perfectly every time.
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đď¸The History of the Brandy Sour in Cyprus
The story of the Brandy Sour goes back to the 1940s at the Forest Park Hotel in Platres, when the drink was first created for King Farouk of Egypt. At the time, it was crafted to look like whiskey and soda so the king could enjoy his drink discreetly. Since then, the Brandy Sour has become the most famous cocktail in Cyprus, with a unique twist in Northern Cyprusâwhere locally distilled Cypriot brandy and bitter lemon soda are used.
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đĽIngredients for a Northern Cyprus Brandy Sour
To capture the authentic taste, make sure youâre using Cypriot brandy (brands like âCyprus Brandyâ or âKeoâ are commonly used in the north) and a bitter lemon mixer, which gives the cocktail its signature zing.
Youâll Need:
⢠50ml Cypriot Brandy
⢠25ml Fresh Lemon Juice
⢠2 dashes Angostura Bitters (optional but traditional)
⢠100ml Bitter Lemon Soda (or Lemonade as a substitute)
⢠Ice cubes
⢠Lemon slices for garnish
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đ¨âđłStep-by-Step Brandy Sour Cocktail Recipe
⢠Fill a tall glass with ice cubes to chill the drink.
⢠Pour in 50ml of Cypriot brandy.
⢠Add 25ml of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
⢠Shake or stir the mixture gently for balance.
⢠Add two dashes of bitters to enhance the flavour (optional).
⢠Top up with bitter lemon soda until the glass is nearly full.
⢠Garnish with a slice of lemon and enjoy immediately!
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đTips for the Perfect Brandy Sour
⢠Use local Cypriot brandy for the most authentic taste.
⢠International brandy works too, but the flavour will differ.
⢠If you canât find bitter lemon soda, mix lemonade with a splash of tonic water as a substitute.
⢠For a sweeter version, add a teaspoon of sugar syrup before shaking.
⢠Always serve in a tall glass with plenty of iceâthis cocktail should be refreshing and light.
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đšWhy the Brandy Sour is Northern Cyprusâs Favourite Cocktail
What makes the Brandy Sour Cocktail so special in Northern Cyprus is how it captures the Mediterranean spirit. Itâs refreshing on hot summer days, pairs beautifully with local meze, and is equally at home at a family BBQ or in a high-end cocktail bar in Kyrenia.
The Brandy Sour isnât just a drinkâitâs a cultural tradition that represents Cypriot hospitality.
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âBrandy Sour FAQ
1. What alcohol is used in a Brandy Sour?
Cypriot brandy is the traditional choice, giving it a smooth, mellow flavour.
2. Is the Brandy Sour strong?
Itâs lighter than most cocktails, thanks to the soda, making it refreshing and easy to drink.
3. Can I make a Brandy Sour without bitters?
Yes, but bitters add a unique depth that balances the citrus and sweetness.
4. What food goes well with Brandy Sour?
It pairs wonderfully with Cypriot meze, grilled halloumi, seafood, or even kebabs.
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đFinal Sip: Bring Northern Cyprus Home
Making a Brandy Sour Cocktail at home is like bringing a taste of Northern Cyprus right to your glass. Whether youâre reminiscing about a holiday on the island or just discovering Cypriot culture for the first time, this iconic cocktail is a delicious introduction.
So next time youâre in the mood for something refreshing, skip the gin and tonicâtry a Brandy Sour instead.