Making homemade peach brandy is a rewarding experience, with the sweet, juicy flavors of fresh peaches blending with the warm alcohol. Whether you’re new to distilling or an experienced home brewer, this simple guide will walk you through the process of making your own peach brandy. Perfect for sipping, mixing cocktails, and gifting to friends and family.
What is Peach Brandy?
Peach brandy is a fermented spirit made with powdered peach sugar and yeast. It captures the essence of ripe peaches and imparts a fruity aroma, smoothness and slight sweetness. Even if you find commercial peach brandy, homemade peach brandy allows you to control the taste, flavor and alcohol content.
Ingredients for Homemade Peach Brandy
To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 pounds of ripe peaches (washed, pitted, and sliced)
- 2 pounds of sugar (granulated)
- 1 gallon of water
- 1 packet of wine or champagne yeast (available at brewing stores)
- 1 large fermentation container (with an airlock)
- Cheesecloth or strainer
- Bottles for storing the brandy
Step-by-step instructions for making peach brandy
- Prepare the peaches
To begin, give the peaches a good wash to get rid of any dirt or pesticides. Pit and slice the peaches into small pieces, leaving the skins on to maximize flavor as they set. - Make the sugar syrup
In a big pot, bring one gallon of water to a boil. Add the sugar and stir until completely dissolved, making a light syrup. Let the syrup cool to room temperature before proceeding to the next step. - Start the fermentation process
Once the syrup has cooled, pour it into your filling vessel. Add the chopped peaches and mix well. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture by following the instructions on the package. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the yeast. - Heat the peach mixture
Cover the fermenter with an airtight container and attach the air coil. Aeration releases carbon dioxide as it evaporates, releasing oxygen and preventing contamination. Store the container in a cool, dark place (about 65-75°F) for 3-4 weeks. - Strain the mixture
Once the steaming time is over, strain through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove the peach solids. You will taste peach-scented water. - Brandy’s age
For best taste, age fermented peach brandy in a sealed glass bottle for at least 2-3 months. This mellows the flavors and makes it all taste better. As you age, store bottles in a cool, dark place. - Enjoy your homemade peach brandy
Once aged, your peach brandy is ready to enjoy! You can drink it straight, use it in cocktails, or even pour it over dessert for a sweet, boozy twist.
Tips on how to make good peach brandy
- Use ripe peaches: The texture of your peaches affects the taste of your brandy. Select lusciously ripe peaches for optimal outcomes.
- Disinfect your appliances: Wash and sanitize all equipment, including solvents and bottles, to prevent contamination.
- Prepare the dessert recipe: For a sweeter brandy, you can finish it with powdered sugar and before bottling. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can restart the fermentation process.
- Aging time: While 2-3 months is the recommended aging time, some people get a smooth and refined flavor by aging their peach brandy for about a year
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches to make peach brandy?
If fresh peaches are unavailable, then frozen peaches can be substituted. Just make sure that before beginning the fermentation process, they are thawed.
Do I need a still to make peach brandy?
This recipe is fermented peach brandy, which doesn’t require distillation. But if you want more alcohol, you’ll need a still to turn the distilled water into a thicker brandy.
How long does homemade peach brandy last?
Properly stored in a sealed bottle, peach brandy can last for years. The taste should continue to improve with age.
4. Can I add other fruits to my peach brandy?
Yeah! You can try adding other fruits like apricots, nectarines, or fruits for a different taste.
Benefits of homemade peach brandy
Making peach brandy at home allows you to customize the flavor and strength of the spirit, but it also has many other benefits:
- Cost effective: Homemade brandy is often cheaper than store bought brandy, especially if you can find fresh, local peaches.
- No additives: Store-bought brandies may contain artificial sweeteners or preservatives. When you make your own, you control exactly what goes into it.
- Personal taste: You can adjust flavor, aging, and other fruits or spices to create a truly unique brandy.
Conclusion
Making homemade peach brandy is a fun and delicious project that leaves you feeling sweet and fruity. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can make your own peach brandy that rivals anything you buy in the store. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a gift, this recipe is sure to please. So gather up some ripe peaches, grab your fermentation supplies, and start making your own batch of peach brandy today.