The difference between a Wisconsin Old Fashioned and a regular Old Fashioned lies primarily in the choice of base spirit. While a traditional Old Fashioned is made with whiskey, Wisconsinites have a penchant for using brandy instead. This variation is unique to Wisconsin and is deeply ingrained in the state's drinking culture.
In a regular Old Fashioned, the base spirit is typically whiskey, usually bourbon or rye. The cocktail is prepared by muddling a sugar cube with a few dashes of Angostura bitters and a splash of water. This mixture is then combined with the whiskey and served over ice, often garnished with a twist of orange peel or a cherry. The result is a classic, strong, and slightly bitter cocktail that showcases the flavors of the chosen whiskey.
In Wisconsin, however, the Old Fashioned takes on a whole new character. Brandy, specifically Korbel brandy, is the preferred base spirit for a Wisconsin Old Fashioned. This choice of brandy can be attributed to the state's strong German heritage and the popularity of brandy in the region.
The preparation of a Wisconsin Old Fashioned involves muddling a sugar cube with a few dashes of Angostura bitters, just like the traditional version. However, instead of adding water, the mixture is then topped with a generous pour of brandy. This brandy-based concoction is typically served in a rocks glass over ice.
What sets the Wisconsin Old Fashioned apart even further is the variety of ways it can be enjoyed. In addition to the classic sweet version, Wisconsinites have embraced two additional variations: sour and press.
The sweet Wisconsin Old Fashioned is made by adding a splash of soda or lemon-lime soda to the brandy, sugar, and bitters mixture. This adds a touch of effervescence and a hint of sweetness to the cocktail.
The sour Wisconsin Old Fashioned, on the other hand, incorporates a splash of sour mix or lemon juice, giving the drink a tangy and refreshing twist.
Lastly, the press Wisconsin Old Fashioned combines elements of both the sweet and sour versions. It includes both soda and sour mix or lemon juice, resulting in a balanced and complex flavor profile.
It's worth noting that the garnishes for a Wisconsin Old Fashioned also differ from the traditional version. While the classic Old Fashioned is often garnished with an orange twist or cherry, a Wisconsin Old Fashioned is typically adorned with a combination of orange slices, maraschino cherries, and olives. This unique garnish adds a touch of Wisconsin flair to the cocktail.
The Wisconsin Old Fashioned has become a beloved staple in the state, often enjoyed during social gatherings, supper clubs, and sporting events. Its popularity has even led to the creation of the annual “Old Fashioned Fest” in Madison, Wisconsin, where bartenders compete to create the best Wisconsin Old Fashioned.
The difference between a Wisconsin Old Fashioned and a regular Old Fashioned lies in the choice of base spirit and the variations in preparation. Wisconsinites opt for brandy instead of whiskey and have embraced sweet, sour, and press versions of the cocktail. The Wisconsin Old Fashioned is a unique and cherished part of the state's drinking culture, showcasing the influence of German heritage and the love for brandy in the region.