B&B

The B&B is a classic two-ingredient cocktail that perfectly balances the robust character of brandy with the complex, sweet, and herbal profile of Bénédictine D.O.M. liqueur. Often served neat in a snifter or over ice in a rocks glass, it's a superb after-dinner drink. Its deceptive simplicity reveals a depth of flavor that has allowed it to endure for nearly a century. The drink is warming, aromatic, and pleasantly sweet without being cloying.
B&B

Preparation

Preparation time: 2 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The B&B is considered a classic cocktail, celebrated for its simplicity and elegance. It is primarily categorized as a digestif, or after-dinner drink, meant to be sipped slowly. Its two-ingredient nature places it in the "duo" category of cocktails.

Serving

This is a short, spirit-forward drink, typically served cold over a large ice cube in an Old Fashioned glass. It has a high alcohol content and is meant for sipping.
Serving size
Approximately 90 ml / 3 oz
Alcohol content
Approximately 35-40% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Old Fashioned Glass
Glass treatment
None

Backstory

The B&B was created in the early 1930s at the 21 Club in New York City. During Prohibition, patrons began mixing brandy with Bénédictine liqueur to create a more palatable drink. The combination became so popular that the Bénédictine company itself started bottling a pre-mixed version in 1937, which combines 60% Bénédictine and 40% French brandy.
Origin
United States, New York City, 21 Club, early 1930s.

B&B

The drink is most commonly known as B&B, which is a simple abbreviation for its two ingredients: Brandy and Bénédictine. Sometimes it is specified as "B&B on the Rocks" to indicate it should be served over ice. The original name is simply the combination of its components.
Original name
B and B
Alternative names
  • Brandy & Benedictine
  • B&B on the Rocks

Characteristics overview

The B&B boasts a rich amber hue and a smooth, silky texture with a complex aroma of herbs, honey, and spice. The flavor is a harmonious blend of sweetness from the Bénédictine and the warming oakiness of the brandy, leading to a long, pleasant aftertaste.
Flavor
Herbal, sweet, warming, complex, honeyed, spiced
Aroma
Herbal, honey, baking spices, oak, citrus peel
Taste balance
Sweet, warming
Aftertaste
Long, warming, herbal, sweet
Fizziness
Still
Color appearance
Amber, golden-brown, clear
Texture
Silky, smooth, viscous
Seasonality
Warming, wintery, year-round digestif

Flavor intensity & Experience

The B&B is a spirit-forward drink with prominent sweetness and herbal spiciness balanced by a strong alcohol backbone. It is not sour, salty, creamy, or carbonated.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

This simple yet elegant cocktail requires only two key ingredients in equal parts: a quality Brandy, such as Cognac, and the unique French herbal liqueur, Bénédictine D.O.M.
  • Brandy45 ml / 1.5 oz
    A good quality VSOP Cognac is an excellent choice.
  • Bénédictine D.O.M. Liqueur45 ml / 1.5 oz
    This specific herbal liqueur is essential and cannot be substituted.

Ice type

  • Cubed or a single large cube/sphere

Mixing equipments

No special equipment is needed; you can measure and pour the ingredients directly into the serving glass. A jigger ensures accuracy for the perfect balance.
  • Jigger or measuring cup for measuring ingredients
  • Bar spoon for stirring

Instructions

To make a B&B, simply pour equal parts of Brandy and Bénédictine liqueur over ice in a rocks glass. A gentle stir to combine and chill is all that's needed before serving.
1. Place a large ice cube or several smaller cubes into an Old Fashioned glass.
2. Measure and pour the Brandy directly over the ice.
3. Measure and pour the Bénédictine D.O.M. Liqueur over the ice.
4. Gently stir the contents of the glass for 5-10 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. (Optional) Express the oils from a lemon peel over the drink for garnish.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy slowly.

Garnishing

The B&B is often served without a garnish to let the spirits shine. If desired, a lemon twist can be expressed over the top to add bright citrus aromatics.
  • Lemon twist (optional), express oils over the drink and drop in

Dietary Information

This cocktail is caffeine-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free. Due to the presence of honey in Bénédictine liqueur, it is not considered vegan but is suitable for vegetarians.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✕ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

A B&B is moderately caloric, with around 230 kcal per serving, primarily from the alcohol and sugar. The carbohydrate and sugar content are relatively high due to the Bénédictine liqueur.
Calories
Averagely 220-250 kcal / 920-1046 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 15-18 grams
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 15-18 grams
Sugar level

Occasions

The B&B is an ideal after-dinner digestif, perfect for sipping slowly by a fire on a cold evening. Its sophisticated character also makes it suitable for elegant social gatherings or as a contemplative nightcap.
  • After-dinner drink
  • Sophisticated gathering
  • Quiet evening
  • Cold weather warmer

Pairing suggestions

As a classic digestif, the B&B pairs wonderfully with after-dinner treats like dark chocolate or crème brûlée. It also complements the richness of a mild cigar or a platter of hard, aged cheeses. Its complex herbal and sweet notes provide a beautiful counterpoint to these flavors.
  • Dark chocolate
  • Mild cigars
  • Hard cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda
  • Crème brûlée

The B&B: Timeless Elegance in a Glass

The B&B is a testament to the idea that simplicity often equals elegance. Combining just two ingredients, Brandy and Bénédictine, this cocktail delivers a remarkably complex and satisfying experience. It's a warming, herbal, and sweet drink, traditionally served as a digestif to be sipped and savored. Originating in a 1930s New York club, its timeless appeal lies in the perfect marriage of a robust spirit with a legendary herbal liqueur.

Similar Cocktails

Vieux Carré

A much more complex cocktail that also features Bénédictine and brandy (Cognac), but adds rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.

Bobby Burns

A Scotch-based cocktail that combines the whisky with sweet vermouth and a small amount of Bénédictine.

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