Must Mix: Cardenal Mendoza Brandy Old Fashioned from Julio Cabrera

Whiskey is typically the spirit of choice when mixing a classic Old Fashioned cocktail.

But there are other spirits that can be used in place of bourbon and rye, especially things like aged tequila and mezcal. But one spirit is often overlooked when mixing this classic—brandy. Now, world-renowned bartender Julio Cabrera is putting a beautiful Spanish brandy at the forefront with this delicious, fall-ready recipe.

Cabrera has been working as a bartender for 27 years in his native Cuba, Italy, Cancun and Miami. He recently opened Cafe La Trova with friend and chef Michelle Bernstein to bring their delicious take on Cuban food and libations to Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood. If you can’t make it to South Florida to experience his excellent cocktails in person, you can channel Cabrera’s expertise by mixing this Cardenal Mendoza Old Fashioned at home.

Julio Cabrera Old Fashioned

Cardenal Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Cardenal Mendoza Brandy
• .25 oz. Cardenal Mendoza Angelus
• .25 oz. Simple Syrup
• 3 dashes Angostura Bitters
• Orange Slice (to Garnish)
• 2 Skewered Cherries (to Garnish)

Preparation: Add all liquid ingredients to a mixing glass with ice. Stir and strain into an Old Fashioned glass over a big ice cube. Garnish with an orange slice and two skewered cherries.