The Old Fashioned. A classic cocktail revered worldwide. Yet, in Wisconsin, it undergoes a transformation, an evolution that sets it apart from its more traditional counterparts. This isn’t just a slight variation; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a drink deeply intertwined with the state’s history, traditions, and, some might say, its soul. But why? What makes a Wisconsin Old Fashioned so uniquely, well, Wisconsin? Let’s embark on a flavorful journey to uncover the secrets behind this iconic beverage.
The Roots of the Old Fashioned: A Brief History
To understand the Wisconsin iteration, we first need to appreciate the drink’s origins. The Old Fashioned, in its purest form, is a testament to simplicity. It’s a cocktail defined by its bare essentials: whiskey (typically bourbon or rye), sugar, bitters, and a bit of water. This was, in essence, how many cocktails were originally made – an attempt to “correct” harsh spirits with a touch of sweetness and aromatic complexity.
The precise origin story is debated, but many trace it back to Louisville, Kentucky, in the late 19th century. A bartender at the Pendennis Club is often credited with creating the drink for a discerning patron who requested a cocktail made “the old-fashioned way.” This marked a return to classic simplicity amid increasingly elaborate and complex mixed drinks.
The Old Fashioned quickly gained popularity, spreading throughout the United States and beyond. It became a symbol of sophistication, a drink enjoyed by those who appreciated the elegance of understated flavors.
Wisconsin’s Unique Twist: The Brandy Old Fashioned
Here’s where the story takes a turn, or rather, a delicious detour. In Wisconsin, the Old Fashioned is often made not with whiskey, but with brandy. This simple substitution is the cornerstone of the Wisconsin Old Fashioned, transforming the drink’s flavor profile and cultural significance.
So, why brandy? The answer lies in history and immigration. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Wisconsin saw a significant influx of German immigrants. Brandy was a favored spirit in Germany, particularly German brandy known as Deutscher Weinbrand. As these immigrants settled in Wisconsin, they brought their drinking preferences with them.
Further solidifying brandy’s place in Wisconsin’s bars and homes was the impact of Prohibition. While whiskey production and consumption were restricted, brandy, perceived as a less potent beverage (though often just as strong), sometimes faced less scrutiny. This allowed brandy to maintain, and even strengthen, its foothold in the state’s drinking culture.
The Civil War also played a role. Whiskey distilleries in the South were disrupted, leading to a shortage and increased prices. Brandy, often imported, became a more readily available and affordable alternative.
The Significance of Korbel Brandy
A key player in Wisconsin’s brandy obsession is Korbel. While Korbel is primarily known for its sparkling wine, they also produce brandy. Their brandy became particularly popular in Wisconsin, thanks to aggressive marketing and a consistent supply during times when other spirits were scarce. Korbel’s prominence helped solidify brandy’s place as the base spirit for the Wisconsin Old Fashioned. It became the quintessential Wisconsin brandy, a staple in bars and homes throughout the state. Even today, asking for a Brandy Old Fashioned in Wisconsin often implies that Korbel is the brandy of choice, unless specified otherwise.
Beyond the Base Spirit: Sweet, Sour, or Press?
The choice of spirit is just the beginning. The Wisconsin Old Fashioned also offers choices regarding sweetness and carbonation that add another layer of complexity and personalization. Do you prefer it sweet, sour, or press?
Sweet: The Most Common Choice
The sweet Old Fashioned is arguably the most popular version in Wisconsin. In this variation, the drink is muddled with maraschino cherries, orange slices, and sugar, creating a vibrant and fruity base. A splash of sweet soda, such as 7-Up or Sprite, is then added to complete the drink. This results in a sweeter, more approachable cocktail that appeals to a wide range of palates.
Sour: A Tangy Alternative
The sour Old Fashioned, as the name suggests, offers a tangy and slightly tart alternative. Instead of sweet soda, sour mix or a combination of lemon-lime soda and a dash of sour mix is used. This version is less sweet than the sweet Old Fashioned, offering a more balanced and refreshing flavor profile.
Press: A Carbonated Compromise
The press Old Fashioned offers a middle ground between the sweet and sour versions. It’s made with a combination of sweet and sour soda, typically 7-Up and sour mix or club soda. This creates a drink that is both sweet and slightly tart, with a lighter and more effervescent quality.
The Muddle: A Fruity Foundation
The muddle is an essential step in creating a Wisconsin Old Fashioned, regardless of whether you choose sweet, sour, or press. The muddle typically consists of:
- Maraschino Cherries: A generous amount of maraschino cherries, often two or three, are added to the glass.
- Orange Slice: A slice of orange is also included, adding a citrusy aroma and flavor.
- Sugar: A sugar cube or a spoonful of sugar is muddled with the fruit to create a sweet base. Some prefer simple syrup.
- Bitters: Angostura bitters are typically used, adding a layer of aromatic complexity.
These ingredients are then muddled together, releasing their flavors and creating a sweet and fruity foundation for the drink. The muddling process is crucial, as it allows the flavors of the fruit and sugar to meld together, creating a cohesive and balanced flavor profile. Some Wisconsinites will include pineapple in the muddle as well.
Garnishes: The Finishing Touch
The Wisconsin Old Fashioned is typically garnished with:
- Maraschino Cherry: An additional maraschino cherry is often added as a garnish, providing a visual appeal and an extra burst of sweetness.
- Orange Slice: Another orange slice or a small wedge of orange is used as a garnish, adding a citrusy aroma and visual flair.
These garnishes complete the drink, adding both flavor and visual appeal. They are an essential part of the Wisconsin Old Fashioned experience, contributing to its overall character and charm.
The Wisconsin Old Fashioned: More Than Just a Drink
The Wisconsin Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail; it’s a symbol of the state’s culture and traditions. It’s a drink that is often enjoyed during social gatherings, celebrations, and family events. It’s a drink synonymous with Wisconsin Supper Clubs.
It’s a reflection of the state’s history, its immigrant heritage, and its unique approach to life. It’s a drink that is deeply ingrained in the state’s identity, a testament to its enduring love of brandy, fruit, and a good time.
The drink represents a sense of community and shared experience. Ordering an Old Fashioned in Wisconsin is often a social ritual, a way to connect with others and celebrate the state’s unique culture. Whether you’re at a local bar, a supper club, or a family gathering, the Old Fashioned is a symbol of Wisconsin hospitality and camaraderie.
The debate over the “correct” way to make an Old Fashioned can be lively, but in Wisconsin, the Brandy Old Fashioned reigns supreme. It’s a testament to the state’s willingness to embrace its own unique traditions, even when they deviate from the norm.
Making Your Own Wisconsin Old Fashioned
While experiencing a Wisconsin Old Fashioned in its natural habitat is highly recommended, you can also recreate the experience at home. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Korbel Brandy (or your preferred brandy)
- 1 sugar cube (or 1 teaspoon of sugar)
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- 2-3 maraschino cherries
- 1 orange slice
- Sweet soda (7-Up or Sprite), sour mix, or club soda (depending on your preference)
- Orange slice and maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions:
- In an Old Fashioned glass, muddle the sugar cube, bitters, cherries, and orange slice.
- Add the brandy and ice.
- Top with your choice of sweet soda, sour mix, or press.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.
Experiment with different variations and find the one that suits your taste. The beauty of the Wisconsin Old Fashioned is its adaptability and the opportunity to personalize it to your liking.
The Enduring Appeal of the Wisconsin Old Fashioned
The Wisconsin Old Fashioned continues to be a beloved cocktail, not just in Wisconsin, but increasingly across the United States. Its unique flavor profile, its historical significance, and its connection to Wisconsin’s culture all contribute to its enduring appeal. It is a celebration of simplicity and a testament to the power of tradition.
It is a drink that continues to evolve, with bartenders and home mixologists experimenting with new ingredients and techniques. However, the core elements of the Wisconsin Old Fashioned – the brandy, the muddled fruit, and the choice of sweet, sour, or press – remain the same.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the ones that are a little bit different, a little bit quirky, and a whole lot delicious. So, the next time you find yourself in Wisconsin, or simply craving a taste of the Badger State, be sure to order a Brandy Old Fashioned. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
What is the defining characteristic that sets a Wisconsin Old Fashioned apart from other Old Fashioneds?
The most significant difference is the use of brandy as the base spirit instead of whiskey, which is the more traditional ingredient in other parts of the United States. This preference for brandy, often Korbel brandy, is a deeply rooted cultural tradition in Wisconsin, stemming from historical factors such as German immigration and advantageous trade routes. This substitution significantly alters the flavor profile of the cocktail, lending it a sweeter, fruitier character compared to the often bolder, spicier taste of a whiskey-based Old Fashioned.
Beyond the base spirit, another key variation lies in the preparation. While a traditional Old Fashioned typically involves muddling sugar, bitters, and a small amount of water, the Wisconsin version frequently includes muddling fruit, most commonly oranges and cherries. Furthermore, it’s often topped off with sweet or sour soda, such as Sprite or sour mix, rather than plain water, further contributing to its sweetness and effervescence. This layered approach to building the cocktail results in a visually appealing and sweeter drink experience distinctly associated with Wisconsin.
Why did Wisconsin adopt brandy as the spirit of choice for its Old Fashioned?
The adoption of brandy in Wisconsin’s Old Fashioned is largely attributed to the influx of German immigrants in the 19th century. These immigrants brought with them a preference for brandy, a spirit commonly enjoyed in their homeland. This preference, combined with successful marketing efforts by Korbel brandy in the early 20th century, cemented brandy’s place as a staple in Wisconsin bars and homes.
Additionally, brandy was often more affordable and readily available than high-quality whiskey during certain periods. This accessibility, coupled with the German-American community’s established taste for brandy, led to its widespread use in the Old Fashioned, gradually evolving into the state’s signature cocktail variation. Over time, it transformed from a substitute ingredient to an integral part of Wisconsin’s drinking culture.
What are the different variations of a Wisconsin Old Fashioned a customer might encounter?
Wisconsin Old Fashioneds come in three primary variations, each differing based on the soda used as a topper. The “sweet” version is typically topped with a sweet soda like Sprite or 7-Up, creating the sweetest and most common rendition. The “sour” version uses a sour mix or a combination of club soda and simple syrup, offering a slightly tart and less sweet experience.
The “press” variation, short for “Presbyterian,” is a mix of sweet and sour soda, providing a balanced flavor profile that sits between the “sweet” and “sour” options. While the specific proportions of sweet and sour soda can vary from bar to bar, the “press” Old Fashioned aims to offer a nuanced complexity that appeals to a wide range of palates. Understanding these variations allows customers to tailor their Old Fashioned experience to their specific preference.
What kind of garnish is commonly found in a Wisconsin Old Fashioned?
A Wisconsin Old Fashioned typically boasts a vibrant and generous garnish, reflecting its overall indulgent character. The most common garnishes include an orange slice, a maraschino cherry (or several), and sometimes even a pickle spear or olive, offering a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the drink.
The use of a substantial garnish is not merely decorative; it contributes to the overall sensory experience of the cocktail. The sweet and tart flavors of the orange and cherry complement the brandy and soda, while the optional pickle or olive adds a briny, savory element that enhances the drink’s complexity. The garnish is an integral part of the Wisconsin Old Fashioned tradition.
How do Wisconsin bartenders typically prepare an Old Fashioned?
The Wisconsin Old Fashioned preparation involves several steps that differentiate it from the classic whiskey-based version. First, sugar, bitters (often Angostura), and typically a few pieces of fruit (orange and cherry) are muddled in the bottom of an Old Fashioned glass. Some bartenders may also add a splash of water or simple syrup to aid in the muddling process.
Next, the glass is filled with ice, brandy is added, and the mixture is stirred. Finally, the cocktail is topped off with either sweet soda, sour soda, or a combination of both (for a “press”). The drink is then garnished with an orange slice and maraschino cherries, creating a visually appealing and flavorful cocktail that is distinctly Wisconsin.
Where can someone find the “most authentic” Wisconsin Old Fashioned?
Finding the “most authentic” Wisconsin Old Fashioned is subjective and often depends on individual preferences and regional variations within the state. However, generally, one should seek out supper clubs and traditional bars, particularly those located in smaller towns and rural areas, as these establishments tend to uphold the most traditional methods.
These establishments often have a long history of serving Old Fashioneds and pride themselves on using quality ingredients and adhering to time-honored recipes. Talking to local bartenders and asking for recommendations can also lead you to hidden gems that serve exceptional, authentic Wisconsin Old Fashioneds that reflect the true spirit of the cocktail and the region.
How has the Wisconsin Old Fashioned evolved over time?
The Wisconsin Old Fashioned has evolved from a simple adaptation of the classic cocktail to a cultural icon, though its core elements have remained relatively consistent. While the base spirit shifted from whiskey to brandy early on, the muddling of fruit and the addition of sweet soda became defining characteristics.
Over time, bartenders have experimented with variations on the theme, introducing new fruits, bitters, and soda combinations. Despite these modern tweaks, the fundamental spirit of the Wisconsin Old Fashioned – a sweet, fruity, and effervescent brandy-based cocktail – endures. This combination of tradition and innovation keeps the Wisconsin Old Fashioned relevant and beloved by generations of Wisconsinites.