Melt the chocolate in a double boiler over medium-low heat. It's a good idea

to stand over the chocolate while it's melting and stir until it has melted completely; take it off the heat immediately.

Whip the cream and set aside.

Pour the brandy and hot water slowly into a bowl with the egg yolks, whisking briskly as you go until completely mixed. Whisk in the melted chocolate. Keep whisking even after the mixture is completely combined; this

will help cool the chocolate.

Whip the egg whites and the sugar, adding the vanilla as you beat, until peaking but not dry. Fold the egg-white meringue into the chocolate mixture carefully with a wooden spoon. Fold in the whipped cream. This is the most critical part of the recipe. The key to a great chocolate mousse is incorporating cooled chocolate into whipped cream. The chocolate must be cool

to the touch or the cream will separate. Lightly blend the two mixtures until

uniform.

The mousse is actually at its best texture as soon as mixed.