Fersken i Cognac

Blanch peaches in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to loosen skins, then transfer to ice water to cool slightly. Peel away the skins and halve the peaches, removing the pits.

Combine sugar and water in a large pot and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.

Add lemon juice to the syrup and stir to combine.

Carefully add the peach halves to the hot syrup in batches, ensuring they are submerged. Bring the liquid back to a gentle simmer.

Simmer the peaches gently for 20-25 minutes until they are tender but still hold their shape, stirring gently once or twice.

Remove the pot from heat and allow the peaches to cool slightly, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the brandy until fully incorporated throughout the syrup and peaches.

Transfer the peaches and syrup to serving glasses or a decorative bowl and allow to cool to room temperature before serving, or chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for enhanced flavor.