Updated on: 6/3/2025
Can Brandy Be Used in Non-Alcoholic Cocktails?
Classic brandy is distilled from wine or fermented fruit, meaning it always contains alcohol by definition. So, using actual brandy in a non-alcoholic cocktail isn’t possible if true zero-alcohol is required. But the rich, fruity, warming notes that brandy brings to drinks can absolutely be replicated—with remarkable realism—by using alcohol-free alternatives.
How to Capture Brandy Flavor Without Alcohol
Replicating the depth and aromatic layers of brandy in non-alcoholic cocktails calls for thoughtful substitutions. Look for products or techniques that bring dried fruit, vanilla, oak, and subtle warmth—without the spirit.
Best Non-Alcoholic Substitutes for Brandy in Cocktails
- Brandy-flavored extracts: Available in most baking aisles, they offer classic notes of grape and oak in just a few drops.
- Brandy-inspired syrups: Craft producers and hobbyists offer syrups designed specifically to mimic the essence of brandy, ideal for zero-proof mixology.
- Alcohol-free brandy alternatives: Specialty brands create non-alcoholic “spirits” using botanicals and natural flavors to evoke brandy’s warming complexity.
- DIY infusions: Combine 60 ml grape juice, 10 ml prune juice, 5 ml vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon to approximate brandy’s rich character.
Mixing Zero-Proof Brandy Cocktails at Home
You can use alcohol-free brandy substitutes in both shaken and stirred mocktail recipes. The key is to balance the drink so you still get that familiar sip—warming, aromatic, and slightly fruity—without a trace of real alcohol.
- Start with a base: 45 ml non-alcoholic brandy alternative, or 40 ml grape juice with 5 ml brandy-flavored extract.
- Add complexity: Try 15 ml lemon juice and 10 ml simple syrup for a zero-proof Sidecar; or 30 ml apple cider and 15 ml cinnamon syrup for a spirit-free Autumn Old Fashioned.
- Taste and adjust: Non-alcoholic versions may need more acidity or bitters to match the complexity of true brandy drinks.
Expert Tips for Full Flavor Without Alcohol
- Mix small quantities of multiple extracts; don’t rely solely on one note—layer vanilla or almond for even more depth.
- Dilute rich syrups or juice blends with brewed black tea for added tannin and structure, mimicking barrel-aged spirits.
- Always taste before serving: alcohol-free cocktails can turn out sweeter than expected; dial back sugar as needed.
Quick Non-Alcoholic Brandy Old Fashioned Recipe
- 60 ml grape juice
- 10 ml prune juice
- 5 ml brandy-flavored extract
- 5 ml simple syrup
- 1 ml orange bitters (non-alcoholic)
- Stir all ingredients with ice and strain into an ice-filled rocks glass. Garnish with an orange twist.
By using creative non-alcoholic brandy substitutes, it’s easy to craft sophisticated, zero-proof cocktails that deliver both the essence and the experience—without a drop of alcohol.