In a bid to give recognition to a beloved Wisconsin tradition, state lawmakers are pushing for the brandy old fashioned to be designated as the official Wisconsin state cocktail. The bipartisan resolution was brought forward on Thursday in the state Assembly, marking a significant step towards solidifying the drink's status. Unlike bills that require a more rigorous process, resolutions do not hold the weight of law and can be adopted by the Legislature without the need for public input or a hearing.

Wisconsin, known for its unique take on the classic cocktail, distinguishes itself from the rest of the country by using brandy instead of the traditional whiskey. Typically, the brandy old fashioned in Wisconsin is made with a mixture of muddled cherries, orange slices, sugar, and bitters, with brandy poured over the concoction. Depending on personal preference, the drink is then topped with a lemon-lime soft drink, sour mix, club soda, or a combination of these mixers. To garnish, it is often accompanied by a cocktail cherry and orange slice, although olives, pickled mushrooms, and even pickled Brussels sprouts have been known to make an appearance.

The roots of this uniquely Wisconsin variation can be traced back to the aftermath of World War II. Liquor distributors in the state stumbled upon a surplus of approximately 30,000 cases of high-quality brandy, which they managed to sell off. The brandy quickly gained popularity, surpassing the quality of the whiskey that had been available during the war. "Wisconsinites increasingly substituted brandy for other spirits in cocktails, making brandy a staple throughout the state," states the bipartisan resolution seeking official recognition.

While the resolution does not guarantee a spot in the state's official symbols list, which features items like milk as the official beverage, kringle as the official pastry, and corn as the official grain, it is still a significant step towards acknowledging the Wisconsin tradition. To attain the level of recognition seen in the state's "Blue Book," a bill must be introduced, followed by a public hearing, and ultimately the signature of the governor. Currently, only two states, Alabama and Virginia, have gone through this process to declare whiskey as their official state spirit.

The proposed resolution has garnered support from both sides of the aisle, making its path to approval smoother than previous attempts at declaring official state symbols. For instance, the proposal to name Colby as the official cheese faced opposition due to concerns over how it may impact the sales and reputation of other cheese varieties. The brandy old fashioned resolution, however, seems to have a much easier journey.

Throughout the year, the Assembly has already passed over two dozen resolutions on various matters, ranging from condemning the Hamas attack on Israel to proclaiming June as dairy month. With its cultural significance and widespread popularity, the brandy old fashioned is poised to join this list, highlighting its importance in Wisconsin's rich history and culinary traditions. As the resolution moves forward, Wisconsinites eagerly await the official recognition of their beloved state cocktail.