Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned Recipe

There’s something delightfully retro about whipping up a classic Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned, and let me tell you, this cocktail is like a hug in a glass, bursting with citrusy sweetness and a hint of nostalgic flair.

I love crafting a Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned, a classic cocktail that brings together the richness of brandy, a touch of bitters, and the sweetness of a sugar cube. The brightness of an orange slice pairs perfectly with a maraschino cherry, while a splash of soda adds refreshment.

Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned Recipe Ingredients

• Brandy: A smooth spirit adding warmth and depth to the drink.
• Sugar Cube: Sweetens the cocktail with simple carbohydrates.
• Angostura Bitters: Infuses aromatic complexity, enhancing flavor.
• Orange Slice: Adds a citrusy note, offering vitamins like C.
• Maraschino Cherry: Provides a sweet garnish, complementing the brandy.
• Club Soda or Lemon-lime Soda: Lightens the drink, adding fizz and refreshment.

Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 ounces brandy
• 1 sugar cube
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 orange slice
• 1 maraschino cherry
• Club soda or lemon-lime soda, to top
• Ice cubes
• Optional garnish: additional orange slices and maraschino cherries

How to Make this Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned Recipe

1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass.

2. Add the 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters over the sugar cube.

3. Add the orange slice and the maraschino cherry into the glass.

4. Muddle the sugar, bitters, orange, and cherry together until the sugar is dissolved and the fruit is well crushed.

5. Fill the glass with ice cubes.

6. Pour in the 2 ounces of brandy over the ice.

7. Stir the mixture gently to combine the ingredients.

8. Top off the drink with club soda or lemon-lime soda to your preference.

9. If desired, garnish with an additional orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

10. Serve immediately and enjoy your Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned.

Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Old Fashioned glass
2. Muddler
3. Stirring spoon
4. Jigger or measuring tool (for measuring the brandy)
5. Knife (for slicing orange, if needed)

FAQ

• What is the origin of the Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned? The Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned is a regional variation of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, popularized in Wisconsin, where brandy is preferred over the traditional whiskey.
• Can I use whiskey instead of brandy? While whiskey is traditionally used in an Old Fashioned, the Wisconsin variant specifically calls for brandy to achieve its unique flavor profile.
• What’s the best type of brandy to use? Use a good-quality brandy; many Wisconsinites prefer brands like Korbel, but any smooth brandy will do.
• Should the orange slice be muddled? Yes, the orange slice is typically muddled with the sugar cube and bitters to release its oils and juices, adding depth to the drink.
• What’s the purpose of the maraschino cherry? The maraschino cherry adds a sweet, fruity note that complements the brandy and bitters in this cocktail.
• How should I top the cocktail? The cocktail can be topped with either club soda for a less sweet version or lemon-lime soda for a sweeter, more traditional Wisconsin taste.
• Can I prepare this drink ahead of time? It’s best to prepare each drink fresh to enjoy the full flavors of the muddled ingredients and fresh carbonation.

Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• You can substitute cognac for the brandy for a slightly different flavor profile.
• If you don’t have sugar cubes, use 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar or simple syrup.
• Orange bitters can replace Angostura bitters for a citrus twist.
• An orange wedge can be used in place of an orange slice.
• Try a splash of ginger ale as an alternative to club soda or lemon-lime soda.

Pro Tips

1. Chill the Glassware Before you start, place your Old Fashioned glass in the freezer for a few minutes. A chilled glass helps maintain the drink’s temperature, enhancing your cocktail experience.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients Whenever possible, use fresh cherries and oranges. Fresh fruit will provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor than pre-packaged or canned options.

3. Experiment with Bitters While Angostura is classic, try experimenting with different types of bitters, such as orange or cherry bitters, to add a unique twist to your cocktail.

4. Adjust Sweetness For a sweeter drink, you might dissolve an extra sugar cube or reduce the amount of soda. Conversely, if you prefer less sweetness, use less sugar or opt for club soda over lemon-lime soda.

5. Use Quality Brandy The flavor of your brandy Old Fashioned will heavily depend on the quality of the brandy you use. Invest in a good-quality brandy to enhance the depth and richness of the cocktail.