Feel the love of the Heartland

  Here in the heart of the mid-west, the mixed drink that stands for our culture, the one and only "Old Fashioned." So, what is an Old Fashioned, contrary to the name Old Fashioned is the most popular mixed drink in Wisconsin. Old Fashioned is a cocktail made by muddling sugar with bitters, then adding alcohol, such as whiskey or brandy, and a twist of citrus rind. It is served in a short, round tumbler-like glass. It was developed in the 19th century and given its name in 1880.

When I work a busy shift, I make about 50 to 60 Old Fashioned cocktails, sometimes even more.

This is how I make my Old Fashioned, the secret to making a good Old Fashioned is by asking the customer how sweet do they want their drink, depending on that I work my recipe.

I start with a little water or sprite just enough to muddle these, cherries 2-3, two orange slices,  sugar/simple syrup, dash of bitters. Top the Old Fashioned glass with ice, use whiskey or brandy of your choice and top it off with water or sprite. Garnish with olives, cherries and a slice of orange.

Sounds simple enough, but it is an art to make an Old Fashioned, that agrees with your customer. So, when you visit Wisconsin next, order yourself an Old Fashioned, feel the love of the heartland.