As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am well-versed in the laws and regulations surrounding alcohol sales. In Wisconsin, the time at which you can purchase liquor depends on various factors, including the type of establishment and the purpose for which the alcohol is being sold.
In most cases, Wisconsin state law permits the sale of alcohol from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. This typically applies to alcohol that is sold for consumption off the premises from where it was purchased. This means that if you are looking to buy a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer from a liquor store or grocery store, you can do so during this time frame.
It is important to note, however, that there are exceptions to this general rule. For example, establishments such as bars, restaurants, and taverns are often allowed to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption beyond the 9 p.m. cutoff. This means that if you are dining out or visiting a bar, you may still be able to order alcoholic beverages even after 9 p.m.
Additionally, certain holidays and special events may alter the hours during which alcohol can be sold. For instance, on New Year's Eve, many establishments may extend their hours to accommodate the festivities. It is always a good idea to check with the specific establishment you plan to visit to confirm their hours of operation.
Personal experiences have taught me that it is important to be mindful of these regulations, especially if you have a specific time frame in mind for purchasing alcohol. I have encountered instances where I arrived at a liquor store just a few minutes past 9 p.m., only to find that they had already stopped selling alcohol for the day. It can be frustrating, but it is crucial to respect and adhere to these laws.
To summarize, in Wisconsin, you can generally buy alcohol from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. for off-premises consumption. However, the hours may vary for on-premises consumption at bars and restaurants. It is always advisable to check with the establishment directly or consult local laws for specific details.