Step into any supper club across Wisconsin, and you’ll quickly discover why the Wisconsin Old Fashioned reigns supreme as the state’s signature cocktail. This isn’t just a drink; it’s a cherished tradition, a symbol of Midwestern hospitality, and a testament to a unique American spirit.

My first encounter with a genuine Wisconsin Old Fashioned was in a cozy, wood-paneled supper club near Green Bay. I was with my husband’s family, ready for the famed Friday night fish fry, and curious about this local legend. What arrived was delightfully different from the bold, whiskey-forward Old Fashioned I knew. This version was brighter, sweeter, and wonderfully fizzy, garnished with a vibrant maraschino cherry and a fresh orange slice. One sip, and I understood the fierce loyalty Wisconsinites have for their distinctive take on this classic. It was an instant favorite.

Since then, crafting the perfect Wisconsin Old Fashioned at home has become a delightful mission. My personal touch, a secret ingredient that elevates the experience, is a splash of homemade cherry bounce. This addition deepens the fruit flavor with a warm hint of spice, creating a richer backbone that beautifully complements the brandy. It’s a small detail that consistently garners compliments. If you’re ready to discover the soul of Wisconsin in a glass, join me as we dive into this beloved brandy cocktail recipe.

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Why This Wisconsin Old Fashioned Recipe Is a Must-Try

The Wisconsin Old Fashioned is more than a beverage; it’s a cultural touchstone. It’s a versatile drink you’ll find everywhere from bustling supper clubs and friendly neighborhood bars to spirited church picnics and warm family reunions throughout the Badger State. And while every establishment and home bartender may have their own subtle variations, the core spirit remains the same.

What truly distinguishes this Midwest cocktail recipe from its classic counterpart is its distinctive character. Foremost is the traditional use of brandy instead of whiskey, lending a smoother, fruitier base. Equally important is the finishing touch: your choice of soda. This flexibility is part of its charm. You get to customize your drink to your preferred taste:

Sweet Old Fashioned: Typically topped with lemon-lime soda like 7UP or Sprite for a mellow, approachable sweetness.
Sour Old Fashioned: Finished with sour mix or grapefruit soda like Squirt, offering a delightful tangy kick.
Press Old Fashioned: A lighter, crisper option, made with a half-and-half blend of club soda and lemon-lime soda.

Unlike the traditional Old Fashioned, which often emphasizes the robust notes of bitters and strong spirits, the Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned is designed to be more inviting and less intense. It’s an approachable drink, perfect for leisurely sipping over a long dinner or while anticipating a plate of golden-fried fish. The muddled fruit, balanced sweetness, and effervescent bubbles create a lighthearted yet profoundly flavorful experience that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Our recipe faithfully captures the authentic supper club spirit while introducing a subtle upgrade: the splash of cherry bounce. This optional but highly recommended twist adds an incredible depth of flavor and a homemade touch that transforms the drink into something truly special. It’s the kind of cocktail that feels both classic and uniquely personal, a testament to the warmth and tradition of Wisconsin.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Wisconsin Old Fashioned

To craft one impeccable Wisconsin Old Fashioned, gather these key components. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that signature sweet, fruity, and slightly fizzy balance:

2 oz Brandy: Korbel is the time-honored choice in Wisconsin, celebrated for its smooth profile and affordability.
1 Sugar Cube (or 1/2 tsp Simple Syrup): Provides the essential sweetness.
2–3 Dashes Angostura Bitters: Adds aromatic complexity and balances the sweetness.
1 Orange Slice: Essential for muddling, releasing citrus oils and fresh juice.
1 Maraschino Cherry: For muddling and an iconic garnish. Two if you adore cherries as much as I do!
Splash of Cherry Bounce (Optional Twist): My personal secret for an extra layer of deep fruit and spice.
Ice: Crucial for chilling and proper dilution.
Your Choice of Mixer: Lemon-lime soda (like 7UP or Sprite) for a sweet version, sour mix or Squirt for a tart one, or a 50/50 mix of club soda and lemon-lime soda for a “press.”

A Few Important Notes on Ingredients:

Brandy Selection: While Korbel is the quintessential Wisconsin Old Fashioned brandy, any smooth, decent-quality brandy will work beautifully. For an enhanced flavor profile, consider experimenting with an aged brandy, which can introduce richer, more complex notes of oak and caramel. A spiced brandy can also add a delightful warmth, especially during colder months.
The Magic of Cherry Bounce: This homemade cherry liqueur is made by infusing fresh or frozen cherries in brandy with sugar and a blend of warm spices over several weeks or months. It’s a labor of love but well worth the effort for its profound, fruity depth. If you don’t have cherry bounce on hand, a good quality cherry syrup (not just the maraschino juice) can serve as a decent substitute, though it won’t offer the same spiced complexity.
Maraschino Cherries: For that truly classic, bright red aesthetic that defines the supper club cocktail, opt for traditional maraschino cherries. If you’re looking to elevate the experience and prefer a more sophisticated, less saccharine flavor, Luxardo cherries offer a richer, darker, and more complex cherry note, often favored by craft cocktail enthusiasts.
Bitters: Angostura bitters are the standard, offering a robust blend of herbs and spices. However, a dash of orange bitters can introduce a brighter, citrusy dimension if you want to experiment with variations.
Sugar: A sugar cube is traditional, but simple syrup dissolves more easily and ensures a consistent sweetness. You can also adjust the amount to your preference.

My Wisconsin Old Fashioned Recipe (With Extra Cherry)

Yield:
1 cocktail

Prep Time:
5 minutes

Total Time:
5 minutes

A sweet, fizzy take on the classic Old Fashioned, made with brandy, muddled fruit, and your choice of soda. This supper club favorite is the signature cocktail of Wisconsin, elevated with a personal touch of cherry bounce.

Ingredients

2 oz brandy (Korbel preferred)
1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp simple syrup)
2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
1 orange slice
1 maraschino cherry
Splash of cherry bounce (optional twist)
Ice
7UP, sour mix, or club soda/lemon-lime combo (your choice)

Instructions

In a lowball glass, combine the sugar cube (or simple syrup), bitters, orange slice, maraschino cherry, and the optional splash of cherry bounce.
Using a muddler or the back of a sturdy spoon, gently press the fruit. The goal is to release the flavorful juices and oils without pulverizing the fruit into a fine pulp.
Fill the glass generously with fresh ice cubes.
Pour 2 ounces of brandy over the ice.
Top with your preferred mixer: 7UP or lemon-lime soda for a sweet rendition, sour mix or Squirt for a tart kick, or a “press” (half club soda, half lemon-lime soda) for a lighter finish.
Stir gently to combine all the ingredients without losing too much of the soda’s fizz.
Garnish with an additional maraschino cherry and a fresh orange slice to complete this classic Wisconsin cocktail.

Notes

Brandy: Korbel remains the quintessential Wisconsin choice, known for its smooth blending qualities. For a deeper flavor, consider an aged or spiced brandy.

Cherry Bounce: While optional, adding a splash of homemade cherry bounce imparts a rich, warm fruitiness that makes this drink particularly special, especially in cooler seasons.

Mixer Tip: Always add your soda or mixer fresh and at the last moment to ensure maximum effervescence and a lively drink.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Wisconsin Old Fashioned

Making a Wisconsin Old Fashioned is a simple pleasure, requiring just a few steps. Follow these instructions to create a perfectly balanced and flavorful cocktail every time:

Muddle Your Base: In a sturdy lowball or rocks glass, add the sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp of simple syrup), 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters, one orange slice, one maraschino cherry, and your optional splash of cherry bounce. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently press and twist the fruit. The goal is to extract the essential oils from the orange peel and the juicy sweetness from the fruit without completely pulverizing them into a pulpy mess. A few gentle presses are usually sufficient.
Add Ice: Fill your glass to the brim with fresh ice cubes. Good quality ice makes a significant difference, as it melts slower and chills the drink more effectively without over-diluting it too quickly.
Pour the Brandy: Measure and pour 2 ounces of your chosen brandy (Korbel is highly recommended for authenticity) over the ice and muddled fruit. The brandy will begin to mingle with the fruit and bitters, starting the flavor fusion.
Top with Mixer: This is where you personalize your Wisconsin cocktail. Add a generous splash of your preferred topper:
- For a sweet Old Fashioned, use lemon-lime soda like 7UP or Sprite.
- For a sour Old Fashioned, opt for sour mix or grapefruit soda such as Squirt.
- For a press Old Fashioned, use an equal blend of club soda and lemon-lime soda for a lighter, crisper finish.
Stir and Garnish: Give the drink a gentle stir with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients without losing too much of the soda’s effervescence. Finally, garnish with an additional maraschino cherry (or two!) and a fresh orange slice or wedge. This not only makes the drink visually appealing but also adds another layer of aroma as you sip.

Helpful Tips for the Best Wisconsin Old Fashioned:

Don’t Over-Muddle: Over-muddling can release bitter compounds from the fruit rind and create an overly pulpy drink. Aim for a few gentle presses to extract juices and oils, not to mash the fruit completely.
Fresh Soda is Key: Always use fresh, well-chilled soda. Flat or warm mixers will significantly detract from the drink’s vibrant character and fizz. Store your sodas properly to maintain their carbonation.
Chill Your Glassware: For an extra-cold drink, chill your lowball glass in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before mixing.
Hosting a Crowd? Set Up a DIY Bar: If you’re entertaining, create an Old Fashioned bar. Lay out the brandy, bitters, pre-muddled fruit (in a jar), ice, various soda options (sweet, sour, press), and garnishes. Let your guests enjoy the fun of customizing their own Wisconsin Old Fashioned.

How to Serve Your Wisconsin Old Fashioned

The Wisconsin Old Fashioned is truly best enjoyed cold, traditionally served in a short, sturdy lowball or rocks glass. This type of glassware provides ample space for ice, muddled fruit, and a generous pour of brandy, allowing the components to meld beautifully without feeling cramped.

For serving, consider your preference: a straw allows you to easily sip through the muddled fruit and enjoy the layered flavors, while going without means you’ll experience the brandy and fruit notes a little more directly. I always recommend garnishing with an extra maraschino cherry, perhaps on a cocktail skewer, and a fresh orange wedge or wheel. This not only enhances the visual appeal with a delightful pop of color but also adds to the aromatic experience as you bring the glass to your lips, making the entire presentation feel festive and inviting.

You’ll frequently encounter these beloved drinks at a variety of quintessential Wisconsin gatherings and events, including:

The legendary Friday night fish fries, a weekly tradition across the state.
Festive holiday parties, where its warm, fruity notes are particularly welcome.
Weddings and receptions, adding a touch of local charm to celebrations.
Casual summer cookouts, perfectly complementing grilled bratwursts, juicy burgers, and classic side dishes like deviled eggs and potato salad.

Serving a Crowd? Batching Tips: If you’re expecting guests, prepare a batch base of brandy, bitters, muddled fruit, and your optional cherry bounce in a pitcher or large jar. Keep this mixture chilled. When it’s time to serve, simply pour the base over ice in individual glasses and top with the desired soda (sweet, sour, or press) just before handing them out. This ensures that each drink remains effervescent and perfectly fresh for every guest.

Storing & Re-Using Your Wisconsin Old Fashioned Leftovers

Should you find yourself with extra ingredients or a pre-mixed base, smart storage can ensure you enjoy the flavors of the Wisconsin Old Fashioned another day, or even repurpose them creatively:

Cherry Bounce: This wonderful homemade liqueur is quite stable. Store it in a tightly sealed glass jar in the refrigerator, where it will keep beautifully for up to 2 weeks, or even longer in some cases due to its alcohol content. Besides cocktails, consider drizzling it over ice cream, using it in desserts, or even adding a splash to pan sauces for pork chops or duck for a gourmet touch.
Pre-Mixed Old Fashioned Base (Without Soda): You can prepare a batch of the brandy, bitters, muddled fruit, and cherry bounce ahead of time. Combine these ingredients in an airtight container or pitcher and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Before serving, give the mixture a good stir, pour over fresh ice, and top with soda to maintain the fizz and freshness. Do not add soda until just before serving.
Soda: Always, always add the soda or mixer at the very last minute. Once opened, carbonated beverages quickly lose their fizz, and a flat Old Fashioned simply lacks its signature sparkle and effervescence. Keep your soda bottles and cans tightly sealed and chilled.
Extra Fruit or Syrup: Any leftover muddled fruit or cherry syrup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use these within 3 days to ensure the best flavor and freshness.

These handy leftovers are not just for another round of cocktails; they can inspire new culinary adventures:

Easily mix another refreshing brandy cocktail whenever the mood strikes.
Stir a spoonful of the muddled fruit or a splash of cherry bounce into iced tea or lemonade for a delightful, fruity twist.
For a delicious non-alcoholic treat, drizzle cherry syrup into club soda or sparkling water, perhaps with a squeeze of fresh orange.

Substitutions & Variations for Your Wisconsin Old Fashioned

One of the most appealing aspects of the Wisconsin Old Fashioned is its incredible versatility. This cocktail is designed to be adaptable, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your taste preferences or to what ingredients you happen to have readily available:

Swap the Spirit: While brandy is king in Wisconsin, don’t let its absence deter you.
- Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: Using a good quality bourbon will bring the drink closer to a classic Old Fashioned, offering notes of caramel and vanilla. Rye whiskey will introduce a spicier, more robust bite. Both make excellent, albeit different, versions.
- Spiced Rum: For a warmer, sweeter, and more exotic twist, spiced rum can be a delightful substitute, especially during the colder months, pairing wonderfully with the muddled fruit.
Mixer Options: The choice of topper significantly defines the character of your drink:
- Sweet (Lemon-Lime Soda): Stick to 7UP, Sprite, or any generic lemon-lime soda for that signature sweet and bubbly Wisconsin style.
- Sour (Sour Mix or Grapefruit Soda): For a tangier and more vibrant profile, sour mix is common, or try Squirt (a grapefruit-flavored soda) for an authentic tartness.
- Press (Club Soda & Lemon-Lime Soda): If you prefer a lighter, less sweet, and exceptionally crisp drink, a 50/50 blend of club soda and lemon-lime soda is your go-to.
Garnishes: Elevate your drink’s appearance and aroma with creative garnishes:
- Luxardo Cherries: For a more gourmet, less artificial sweetness, swap the bright red maraschino cherries for rich, dark Luxardo cherries.
- Seasonal Touches: In winter, consider a cinnamon stick or an orange slice studded with cloves for a fragrant, warming aroma.
- Fresh Fruit: A slice of fresh apple or pear can complement the brandy beautifully in autumn.
Bitters: Angostura is the traditional and most common choice, but don’t be afraid to experiment:
- Orange Bitters: A few dashes of orange bitters can enhance the citrus notes and add a brighter complexity to the drink.
- Cherry Bitters: If you love the cherry flavor, a dash of cherry bitters can deepen that profile even further.
Fruit Variations: The muddled fruit is essential, but you can get creative:
- Blood Orange: In season, blood orange offers a beautiful color and a slightly tarter, more complex citrus note.
- Cranberry Juice: A splash of cranberry juice (especially unsweetened) can add a tart, festive flavor, perfect for fall or winter celebrations.
- Berries: Muddled raspberries or blackberries can add a unique, fresh fruit dimension.

Regardless of your chosen modifications, always remember that balance is paramount. The goal is to create a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, bitter, and boozy flavors, all uplifted by the fizz. Avoid going too heavy on the soda, which can dilute the character, or too light on the bitters, which can leave the drink tasting one-dimensional.

FAQs About Wisconsin Old Fashioned Recipes

Here are clear and concise answers to the most frequently asked questions about this iconic Wisconsin Old Fashioned recipe.

Why is brandy used in a Wisconsin Old Fashioned instead of whiskey?

The brandy tradition in Wisconsin is deeply rooted in history and marketing. Its popularity soared in the late 19th century, particularly after Korbel brandy was prominently featured at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago. This exposure, combined with successful post-Prohibition marketing campaigns targeting the state’s large German immigrant population (who already had a fondness for brandy), solidified its status. Brandy offers a smoother, often sweeter, and fruitier profile compared to whiskey, which beautifully complements the muddled fruit and soda mixers, creating a more approachable and distinctive Wisconsin cocktail.

What’s the difference between sweet, sour, and press in a Wisconsin Old Fashioned?

These terms refer to the type of carbonated mixer used to top off the drink, dictating its overall flavor profile:

Sweet: This means the drink is finished with a lemon-lime soda, such as 7UP or Sprite, resulting in a mellow, easy-drinking cocktail. This is a very popular choice for a classic sweet Old Fashioned.
Sour: A sour Old Fashioned is topped with sour mix or a grapefruit soda like Squirt, lending a tangy, often tart, and refreshing character.
Press: A “press” is a blend of half club soda and half lemon-lime soda. This option creates a lighter, less sweet, and crisper drink that still retains some fruit notes without being overly sugary. It’s perfect for those who want a less intense experience.

Can I make a Wisconsin Old Fashioned without muddling the fruit?

While technically possible, omitting the muddling step will significantly alter the character of the drink. Muddling is crucial because it gently presses the orange and cherry, releasing their essential oils, juices, and aromatic compounds. These fresh flavors are what give the Wisconsin Old Fashioned its vibrant, layered complexity. If you’re truly short on time, you could use a splash of good quality orange juice and cherry syrup, but it won’t replicate the fresh, authentic taste that muddled fruit provides. The effort of muddling is minimal and highly rewarding.

What kind of brandy is best for a Wisconsin Old Fashioned?

For an authentic Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned, Korbel California Brandy is the undisputed classic choice. It’s widely available, affordable, and its smooth, fruit-forward notes blend perfectly with the other ingredients. However, you don’t need to limit yourself. A good quality domestic or even an affordable French VS (Very Special) brandy can work well. If you want to elevate the cocktail, consider a slightly aged VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) brandy for added warmth and complexity. The key is to avoid anything overly expensive or intensely flavored, as this is a working-class cocktail meant to be enjoyed without pretense.

How do I batch a Wisconsin Old Fashioned for a party?

Batching this brandy cocktail recipe for a gathering is simple. First, calculate your ingredients: multiply the brandy, bitters, muddled fruit (and cherry bounce, if using) by your desired number of servings. Combine these ingredients in a large pitcher or mason jar. You can muddle the fruit directly in the pitcher or in smaller batches and add it. Chill this base mixture thoroughly in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, simply pour the pre-mixed base over ice in individual glasses and allow guests to top their own drinks with their preferred mixer (sweet, sour, or press). Don’t forget to have plenty of fresh cherries and orange slices for garnishing each glass.

Discover More Delightful Cocktail Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed mastering the art of the Wisconsin Old Fashioned and are eager to expand your mixology repertoire, here are a few more cocktail recipes that are sure to impress and tantalize your taste buds:

Best Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipes – A comprehensive collection showcasing both classic and innovative takes on the timeless Old Fashioned, perfect for any occasion.
Best Espresso Martini Recipe – For coffee lovers, this bold, creamy, and invigorating cocktail is the ideal pick-me-up or after-dinner treat.
Bourbon Old Fashioned Recipe – Dive into a stronger, more traditional rendition of the Old Fashioned, highlighting the rich complexities of bourbon.

Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party, unwinding on the porch after a long day, or simply experimenting with new flavors, there’s always a perfect reason to try something new and deliciously crafted. Cheers to your next favorite cocktail!