Hi hazel and wellie,
The fluid from defrosted fruit is fruit juice, assuming that they were bagged. if they were loaded in loose then they may have a frosting on them which is just water and will be of no use. When things are frozen some of the cells rupture and when it is thawed you get liquid juice, use the liquid. Or if you are still unsure put the fruit in a seive to defrost and taste the liquid which comes off (the drip ) if it does not taste strong then pour it away.
Shame about the brandy use a cheap one.