B&B by Bénédictine

I'll compare the standard "B&B" bottling against some custom Benedictine and brandy mixes I've experienced. The store-bought "B&B" presents the same mentholated honey aroma, with ginger root and newly found cinnamon adding to a pleasant kick (refer to the Benedictine review for additional details). The primary distinction, aside from the expected increase in dryness (which is quite welcome), is an underlying note of tea with honey. I've detected this tea characteristic in the finishes of certain Cognacs before, particularly Hine, which may be influencing my perception and associating it with less desirable, weak, or uninteresting flavor profiles. While I wouldn't claim this mix significantly *enhances* Benedictine, it effectively resolves its sweetness issue in a straightforward manner (and pre-mixed B&B is usually priced similarly). If this drink appeals to you, I strongly suggest exploring different brandies to discover what combinations work well; and if they are less expensive than "B&B", it represents even greater value. The ones mentioned below are all VSOP, simply because it's Remy Martin's standard age statement (and perhaps I'm a bit of a purist). Regarding the "big four": Remy Martin, although 1738 is likely my preferred standalone Cognac currently, none of its expressions adequately balance Benedictine's sweetness with their "cinnamon apple pie" profile – they are better suited for sipping on their own. The same applies to Hennessy VSOP; while it offers slightly more complexity than Remy, its dark, intense nature isn't a good match either (and it's excessively pricey for what it is). The more affordable Martell comes close, being a bit drier, but the red fruit notes aren't quite right... The undisputed champion of this comparison is: Courvoisier VSOP. This brand is inherently a bit warmer and drier than the others, and its floral citrus character elevates it to become the ideal partner for Benedictine (besides being a decent spirit to sip on its own). A "C&B" crafted with Courvoisier earns at least a quarter point higher in my estimation. An honorable mention goes to Hennessy Black, Hennessy's more carefree counterpart (marketed as a mixer), primarily due to its lower cost and floral essence. Its quality is comparable to store-bought B&B, with the added advantage of allowing you to adjust the dryness to your preference.

My experiences in the early 80s involved many vodka-based cocktails and sweet liqueurs, so B&B and I are old acquaintances. This marks my first documented tasting and critical assessment of this sweet delight. This particular sample was tasted neat in a glencairn from a bottle about one-third full, likely from the early 2000s or possibly the late 1990s. The aroma is a mix of candied orange, spices, sweet syrup, a hint of grape, and a touch of ethanol. It's not particularly impressive, but not entirely unpleasant. I can still appreciate simple pleasures, like a stop at a dessert shop. My initial impression is a lack of depth in the flavor profile. The taste is much more appealing than the aroma. It's sweet, inoffensive, clearly "orangy" like Grand Marnier, but smoother and more velvety without GM's sharp edges. Very silky with a creamy mouthfeel, it has a honeyed, sweet, thick character that clearly signals dessert, and one serving is sufficient. Back then, I used this as a sweetener, especially in an Old Fashioned. I used to combine 1.5 oz of Maker's Mark, 0.5 oz B&B, and top with a splash of soda, thoroughly enjoying that combination during my afternoons off. Sweet, easy to drink, and potent were the winning qualities for me then. Occasionally, I would switch it up and use an aged (anejo) tequila as the base spirit. I plan to use the remainder of this bottle as a mixer in similar cocktails going forward. However, I am quite sure I will not purchase another bottle. It is simply too sweet for a refined palate and lacks sufficient subtlety. It's rather like the alcoholic equivalent of pixie sticks. I doubt I will ever drink this neat again. 2.25/5

Tonight's review isn't analytical; it's more about nostalgia. This was essentially my father's preferred cordial, usually appearing at Christmas. The squat brown bottle was often kept in the back. I was curious, observing the adult beverages. However, I never saw anyone pour from it. Years later, my wife and I joyfully hosted Christmas Eve. Food, wine, spirits, and family formed a natural tradition after evening mass. There was an abundance of food and desserts. To bring my father simple pleasure, I made sure to have B&B available. The aroma isn't particularly inviting, almost like Elmer's glue with a sweet, syrupy hazelnut undertone. If the smell is so strange, why do people drink this? However, the palate is nothing like the aroma. It's sweet, sticky, and thick with a hint of spice. The sensation is reminiscent of Tabasco, but the flavor is more akin to fresh cinnamon spice, like Red Hots, yet not artificial like Fireball. It sips sweetly and spicily, having become a nostalgic favorite for me, triggering memories and still offering a small moment of connection with my father. This will always remain a favorite. It's a great cordial. Consider trying a small bottle; I'm sure you'll find it enjoyable. Brandy and Benedictine (whatever that is), it won't disappoint. It might be too sweet for some, but those with an occasional sweet tooth will appreciate it. What spirit connections do you cherish with a family member? What spirit evokes memories? [12/20/20]

Acquired this unintentionally… but I'm not regretting it. This is surprisingly good. The Benedictine is nicely complemented by the brandy, featuring mellow woody notes and warm fruity, vanilla, and honey characteristics. It's akin to a cocktail in a bottle, or the foundation for a great cocktail waiting to be made.

Quite smooth, suitable for sipping, but has a taste like big red cinnamon candies.

Sweet, smooth, low alcohol burn, works well in mixed drinks or on its own.