Paul Masson is a well-known American-made line of wines and brandies, but Paul Masson was, in fact, a real person. Born in France in the late 19th century, Masson moved to San Francisco and began experimenting with California grapes, using grafting techniques and his own French winemaking experience. He discovered quick success among the West Coast elite, and soon expanded into the champagne business. The winery, located just outside of Saratoga, California, still operates today, though ownership has changed hands. The newly named, Mountain Winery, continues to specialize in the same wines that Masson first grew, pinot noirs and chardonnays, though the site has also expanded into a popular outdoor concert venue.

While Americans are undeniably familiar with California wines, brandy, cognac and other grape-based liquors are less well known. In the 1990s, Constellation Brands purchased the Paul Masson name, crafting a line of brandies that have since become the remaining Paul Masson product. These brandies are made using the same attention and dedication that Masson demanded of his products. His legacy lives on through this exquisite liquor, aged at least three years in oak. Brandy is sweet and indulgent, with notes of vanilla and caramel, making Paul Masson products your new favorite ingredient in dessert cocktails or a late-night treat. E&J Gallo recently purchased the Paul Masson name, elevating the distribution power of this century-old brand. If you haven’t added brandy to your liquor cabinet, Paul Masson is the ideal bottle to try, as it’s both high quality and affordable.