Christian Brothers Sacred Bond Brandy

At $16 a bottle, this might become my go-to brandy for cocktails. Nose: Vanilla, wood, alcohol, with hints of cooked fruit or baking spices subtly present. Palate: Custard Finish: Warmth, some spiced fruit, smoke Conclusion: This is surprisingly drinkable for its low price point. It's not particularly complex or fruit-forward, but I would happily serve it to guests. It will undoubtedly excel in cocktails, and its sweet, aged wood aroma and proof will be advantageous. I'm very pleased with this purchase.

For an inexpensive brandy, it's decent, though on the sweeter side – like sugar sweet rather than distinctly fruity. There's a noticeable alcoholic warmth that spreads from the back of the throat through the chest. It's likely better suited for mixing than drinking neat. This brandy will certainly provide warmth on cold evenings when consumed straight. I actually prefer the taste of this bottled-in-bond option over some whiskey bottled-in-bond choices.

This bears a strong resemblance to Paul Masson, but with a more pronounced alcohol presence. It has vanilla and spice flavors, and the sweetness is a bit more subdued compared to other brandies I've tried. This is primarily intended for mixing; I wouldn't choose it for sipping straight. I enjoy it in a sidecar, though I find it less satisfying in an old fashioned.

An excellent brandy. Hints of oak, a pleasant mouthfeel, and a smooth finish. The bourbon aging is prominent. It does seem like it might contain added sugar. It's superb in a Wisconsin Old Fashioned. I wish it were more widely available in the Midwest.

A light flavor, definitely tastes like apple. It's not bad.

Very sweet, acceptable but lacking depth.