Rooted in the traditional craft of distilling. Created for today.
Old Craft – New Momentum
ÉLAN Brandy was born from the vision of giving the traditional craftsmanship of southern German family distilleries a contemporary and exclusive style. Over the years, we intensely explored what constitutes the essence of a premium brandy and how it can be reflected in taste and design.
The result is ÉLAN Brandy V.S.O.P, which preserves the deep roots of the distilling craft while simultaneously embodying a modern character. The design of ÉLAN symbolizes strength, dynamism, and elegance, expressing the brandy's quality characteristics in perfect harmony.
First step
Fermentation
The grapes are harvested and gently pressed, then yeast is added, which starts the fermentation of the base wine.
Second step
Destillation
The base wine is distilled in a copper still, whereby the alcohol is vaporized by heat and then recondensed back into liquid form.
Third step
Maturation
The distilled spirit is aged in American oak barrels to develop a unique flavor profile and a rich amber color, reaching the V.S.O.P. (Very Superior Old Pale) level after at least four years of aging.
First step
Fermentation
The grapes are harvested and gently pressed, then yeast is added, which starts the fermentation of the base wine.
Second step
Destillation
The base wine is distilled in a copper still, whereby the alcohol is vaporized by heat and then recondensed back into liquid form.
Third step
Maturation
The distilled spirit is aged in American oak barrels to develop a unique flavor profile and a rich amber color, reaching the V.S.O.P. (Very Superior Old Pale) level after at least four years of aging.
Classification of brandy
Brandy has a traditional age classification system, which, however, is not strictly regulated outside of Cognac and Armagnac. These labels are usually found on the bottle:
v.s.
(Very Special)
Youngest brandy aged for at least 2 years in casks.
V.S.O.P.
(Very Superior Old Pale)
Youngest brandy matured in casks for at least 4 years.
X.O.
(Extra Old)
Youngest brandy aged in casks for at least 6 years.
Extra-aged
(Beyond Age)
Officially equivalent to X.O. for Cognac, but at least 10 years old for Armagnac.
For special moments
Whether classic, surprising, or with a modern twist: Discover select cocktail creations with ÉLAN Brandy V.S.O.P. and find your personal favorite.
7th Century
Arab Origins
In the region of Jerez, Arabs first distilled wine for medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
Around 1313
French Beginnings
In France, wine distillation began. Physicians called the distillate “eau de vie” and considered it a remedy.
16th Century
Dutch Influence
A Dutch chemist concentrated wine through distillation to ease transportation. The product was called “brandewijn”.
17th Century
English Naming
The English shortened “brandewijn” to “Brandy”, a name that became internationally established.
19th Century
Commercialization
Brandy was marketed in large quantities. English, French and Spanish merchants promoted trade in Jerez and refined the aging process.
20th Century
Legal Definitions & Regulations
The term “Weinbrand” became legally protected in Germany, while “Cognac” was geographically protected in France as an AOC designation.
Today
Premiumization & Globalization
Cognac and Brandy brands focus on luxury positioning with refined barrel aging and limited editions. Cognac especially grew in the US and Asia as a status symbol.
Brandy or whisky – what is the difference?
At first glance, brandy and whisky are similar, but their production and maturation differ significantly. Brandy is distilled from wine or fermented fruit mash – usually from grapes – and is aged in wooden casks for at least six months. It has an alcohol content of at least 36%, and sweetening and caramel coloring are permitted.
Whisky, on the other hand, is made from fermented grain such as corn, barley, wheat, or rye and must be aged in wooden casks for at least three years. With at least 40% alcohol, it is also somewhat stronger. Sweetening, flavoring, and other additives are not allowed – only caramel for coloring is permitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to receive my order?
Orders generally take 3–5 business days to be delivered. You can find the delivery details in your confirmation email.
Can I return my order?
As a consumer, you have a 14-day right of withdrawal. Further information regarding your right of withdrawal as well as a model withdrawal form can be found here.
What payment methods do you offer?
The available payment methods will be displayed to you at the beginning of the ordering process.
Do you also ship internationally?
No, we currently only ship within Germany. Shipping costs apply and will be added during the checkout process.
How do I store brandy at home?
Please store the brandy upright, away from sunlight and heat sources.
How long can the brandy be stored?
Brandy has an extremely long shelf life. Unopened, it can be stored virtually indefinitely, and once opened, it can last for many months to years, provided it is kept in a dark place, upright, and at a stable room temperature.
How to find us
You are welcome to pick up your order in person at our location in Wiesbaden by prior arrangement. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
Pickup possible by arrangement
Allensteiner Weg 5
65191 Wiesbaden
Tel.: +4915171134433
Email: info@elan-brandy.com