Cool name, huh? Fine Brandy.By Design “is a collection of fine brandies that are changing how people see brandy, more especially how one consumes it.”

In plain English? Brandy cocktails, baby!

Introducing…The Franklin!

OudeMeester Demant, bitters and ginger ale, with lemon rinds. Oh Em Holy Crap – favouritist favourite!

Do yourself a favour and get down to the Taste of Joburg show at Monte Casino (started last night and on all weekend) and hit the Fine Brandy.By Design stand. They have the most delicious brandy cocktail and food pairing. Being a veggie, I had the mushroom risotto paired with The Franklin…twice…it was amazing.

For the meaties, they also had two meat options – I didn’t pay too much attention, but I seem to remember that they were some sort of pork belly and lamb dishes paired with brandy cocktails.

I am an absolute convert to the brandy revolution, if you haven’t realised yet. It’s no longer a drink for the old man in his library leather chair with his cigar, it’s freshened up and funky.

P.S. The Taste festival this year is really something to try out – I had so much fun tasting everything! I’d really recommend it for an evening out in Jozi. If you’re tweeting, hashtag is #TOJ2012 and handle is @TasteofJoburg