Brandy Old Fashioned Recipe (with Video)

Brandy Old Fashioned Recipe: Looking for a classic cocktail that’s bold, smooth, and steeped in regional tradition? Meet the Brandy Old Fashioned, Wisconsin’s signature drink and a twist on the legendary Old Fashioned cocktail. If you’ve ever been to a supper club in the Midwest, you’ve probably seen it served in one of its three main styles—sweet, sour, or press—with cherries and oranges muddled right into the glass. Unlike the whiskey-based original, the Brandy Old Fashioned brings a rounder, fruitier note that pairs perfectly with casual dinners and fancy holiday get-togethers alike.

This drink is more than just a cocktail—it’s a cultural icon in Wisconsin and a drink that’s starting to get national recognition for its charm and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just dipping your toes into home bartending, learning how to make a Brandy Old Fashioned is a skill worth mastering.

So, grab your glass and let’s get into it—by the end of this guide, you’ll not only know how to make a perfect Brandy Old Fashioned, but also the story behind it, tips from professionals, and ways to make it your own.

A Brief History of the Brandy Old Fashioned

To understand the Brandy Old Fashioned, we need to take a quick journey back in time. The original Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s—one of the earliest known cocktails. It started simply: sugar, bitters, water, and whiskey. Over time, bartenders began customizing it, and by the time Prohibition ended, it had transformed into something a bit more complex.

Enter Wisconsin. After World War II, the state saw an influx of European immigrants, many of whom brought their love of brandy with them. During the 1940s, Korbel Brandy became incredibly popular in Wisconsin, thanks in part to its appearance at the World’s Fair in Chicago. Locals started swapping whiskey for brandy in their Old Fashioneds, and a new classic was born.

Today, the Brandy Old Fashioned is more than just a drink—it’s a point of pride. In Wisconsin, bartenders don’t ask if you want an Old Fashioned; they ask how you want it: sweet, sour, or press.

Why Choose Brandy Over Whiskey?

Let’s be honest: whiskey gets a lot of the spotlight in the cocktail world. But brandy brings something special to the table—especially in an Old Fashioned. While whiskey can be sharp and oaky, brandy is often smoother, fruitier, and a bit more mellow. That makes it perfect for people who like a well-balanced cocktail without too much bite.

Brandy also has a nostalgic feel. In Wisconsin, ordering a Brandy Old Fashioned is like joining a secret club of cocktail traditionalists. It feels familiar, comforting, and classic.

Plus, brandy pairs beautifully with the fruit, sugar, and bitters used in this drink. The result? A cocktail that’s flavorful without being overpowering—one that you can sip on slowly all evening.

Types of Brandy to Use

Not all brandies are created equal—especially when it comes to making the perfect Brandy Old Fashioned. While you don’t need the most expensive bottle on the shelf, you do want something smooth, slightly sweet, and not too overpowering.

Popular Brandy Choices for Old Fashioneds:

• Korbel (the Wisconsin favorite)
• Christian Brothers
• E&J
• Paul Masson
• Hennessy or Cognac (if you want to get fancy)

Stick with something mid-range. You want quality without wasting the good stuff on mixers. Korbel is especially beloved in Wisconsin for its slightly fruity profile that pairs well with muddled cherries and orange slices.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start mixing, gather your tools. Don’t worry—you won’t need a full bartender’s kit, but having the right basics makes a big difference.

Essential Tools:

• Rocks glass (Old Fashioned glass)
• Muddler
• Bar spoon
• Measuring jigger
• Ice (preferably large cubes)

Optional Tools:

• Cocktail shaker (for pre-chilling)
• Citrus zester (for fancy garnish)
• Bitters dropper

Investing in good tools makes every cocktail more enjoyable to make—and drink.

List of Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down exactly what goes into a traditional Brandy Old Fashioned. Here’s the base recipe:

Classic Brandy Old Fashioned Ingredients:

• 2 oz Brandy
• 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
• 1 sugar cube or ½ tsp simple syrup
• 1 orange slice
• 1-2 maraschino cherries
• Soda to top (Sweet: lemon-lime, Sour: sour mix, Press: club soda + 7UP)
• Ice
• Optional garnish: additional orange slice and cherry

Ingredient Variations by Style:

• Sweet: Use lemon-lime soda (like Sprite or 7UP)
• Sour: Use sour mix or sour soda (like Squirt)
• Press: Use half club soda, half lemon-lime soda

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get into how to make it, step-by-step.

Sweet vs. Sour vs. Press: The Three Styles

Before we dive into making the drink, you need to choose your style. This is where the Brandy Old Fashioned gets its personality. Depending on your preference, you can go sweet, sour, or press.

Sweet

This is by far the most popular version in Wisconsin. It’s made with lemon-lime soda (like Sprite or 7UP), which adds a sweet and fizzy finish. This style is smooth and easy to drink—perfect for beginners or those who prefer a gentler cocktail.

Sour

Want a little more punch? Go with sour. This version typically uses sour mix or citrus-based sodas like Squirt. It gives the drink a tart edge that balances out the brandy and muddled fruit perfectly.

Press

Short for “Presbyterian,” this style mixes half lemon-lime soda and half club soda. It gives a more balanced, less sugary finish and is perfect for those who like a cleaner, crisper cocktail.

How to choose?

• Like sweet drinks? Go sweet.
• Want a citrusy bite? Go sour.
• Prefer something in between? Try the press.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Brandy Old Fashioned

Now for the fun part—mixing your drink. Follow these easy steps to build your cocktail like a pro. Remember, this is the base method, and you’ll tweak the final step depending on your chosen style (sweet, sour, or press).

Step 1: Muddle the Fruit and Sugar

Grab your rocks glass. Add the following directly into the glass:

• 1 sugar cube (or ½ teaspoon simple syrup)
• 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
• 1 orange slice
• 1 or 2 maraschino cherries

Use your muddler to mash everything together gently. Don’t pulverize it—you want to release the oils and juice, not create a fruit puree. The sugar helps break down the fruit and mix with the bitters to create a flavor-packed base.

Step 2: Add Brandy and Ice

Pour in 2 oz of your chosen brandy. Then fill the glass with ice. Large cubes work best because they melt slower and won’t dilute your drink too fast.

Step 3: Top with Mixer

Here’s where you decide on your finish:

• Sweet: Top with lemon-lime soda.
• Sour: Top with sour mix or a sour soda like Squirt.
• Press: Top with equal parts club soda and lemon-lime soda.

Pour the mixer slowly to maintain that layered effect and avoid over-bubbling.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Drop in a cherry, add an orange slice to the rim or in the glass, and you’re done. Stir lightly and serve immediately.

How to Make a Brandy Old Fashioned Sweet

This version is classic Wisconsin. If you’re just getting into the world of cocktails, or you prefer something that goes down smooth and fruity, this is the version for you.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Brandy
• 1 sugar cube or ½ tsp simple syrup
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 orange slice
• 1-2 maraschino cherries
• Lemon-lime soda (7UP or Sprite)
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a rocks glass, add sugar, bitters, orange slice, and cherries.
2. Gently muddle until the sugar dissolves and fruit juices are released.
3. Add ice to the glass.
4. Pour in the brandy.
5. Top with lemon-lime soda.
6. Garnish with another cherry and an orange slice.

This is the crowd-pleaser version. It’s bubbly, fruity, and very easy to sip. Great for parties, game nights, or relaxing evenings.

How to Make a Brandy Old Fashioned Sour

Ready to add some zip to your drink? The sour version is perfect for those who like citrus and want a brighter, tarter finish.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Brandy
• 1 sugar cube or ½ tsp simple syrup
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 orange slice
• 1-2 maraschino cherries
• Sour soda or sour mix (Squirt or homemade sour mix)
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Muddle sugar, bitters, cherries, and orange in a rocks glass.
2. Add ice to fill the glass.
3. Pour in your brandy.
4. Top with sour soda or sour mix.
5. Stir gently.
6. Garnish with a cherry and optional orange wedge.

It’s zingy, citrus-forward, and cuts through the sweetness of the brandy. If you love tart lemonade or sour candies, you’ll be a fan.

How to Make a Brandy Old Fashioned Press

Want something not too sweet, not too sour, but just right? Go for the press style—a balance of soda and fizz without too much sugar.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Brandy
• 1 sugar cube or ½ tsp simple syrup
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 orange slice
• 1-2 maraschino cherries
• ½ lemon-lime soda + ½ club soda
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Add sugar, bitters, fruit to a glass, and muddle gently.
2. Fill with ice.
3. Pour in the brandy.
4. Top with half club soda, half lemon-lime soda.
5. Garnish with cherry and orange.

This is a cleaner, slightly more refreshing version that still honors the flavor profile of a traditional Brandy Old Fashioned. It’s often the favorite of bartenders and regulars alike.

Tips from Bartenders

Want to mix a Brandy Old Fashioned like the pros? These tried-and-true bartender tips can take your cocktail from “pretty good” to “wow, that’s amazing.”

1. Don’t Over-Muddle the Fruit

It’s tempting to smash that orange and cherry into oblivion—but resist the urge. Over-muddling releases bitterness from the orange rind and can make your drink too pulpy. Gentle pressure is all you need.

2. Use Large Ice Cubes

Smaller ice melts quickly and dilutes your drink. Go for large cubes or even a single cocktail sphere. It keeps your Brandy Old Fashioned colder and bolder for longer.

3. Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh orange slices and quality maraschino cherries (like Luxardo) can make a huge difference in flavor. Skip the neon-red ones in favor of darker, richer cherries if you want to impress.

4. Try a Bit of Orange Peel

Want a more aromatic experience? Express the oils from a twist of orange peel over the glass before serving. It gives the drink a citrusy scent that enhances every sip.

5. Don’t Skip the Bitters

Bitters add complexity. They bring everything together and give the cocktail depth. Skipping them is like forgetting the salt in a chocolate chip cookie—it’s just not the same.

Brandy Old Fashioned Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. There’s no rule saying you have to stick to the classic recipe. In fact, many bartenders experiment with new flavors all the time.

1. Cherry Brandy Old Fashioned

Add a splash of cherry liqueur (like Cherry Heering) or use cherry-flavored brandy for an extra kick. You can even muddle in extra cherries for a rich, jammy flavor.

2. Maple Brandy Old Fashioned

Swap the sugar cube for a teaspoon of pure maple syrup. The result is smooth, warm, and perfect for fall or winter sipping.

3. Spicy Brandy Old Fashioned

Add a dash of cayenne or muddle a slice of jalapeño to bring heat into the mix. Spicy versions pair amazingly with the sweet soda top.

4. Herbal Twist

Try adding a sprig of rosemary or thyme during muddling. The herbal notes create a sophisticated, earthy flavor that works surprisingly well with brandy.

5. Smoked Brandy Old Fashioned

Want to wow your guests? Use a cocktail smoker or smoke the glass before pouring. It adds a smoky depth that plays beautifully with brandy’s natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Your Brandy Old Fashioned is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. Pair it with the right setting, food, and presentation, and you’ve got a mini celebration in a glass.

Food Pairings:

• Steak or grilled meats: The cocktail’s sweetness contrasts well with savory, rich flavors.
• Cheese platters: Sharp cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese makes a great match.
• Fried foods: Think cheese curds, onion rings, or chicken wings—the sweetness of the cocktail cuts through the grease.
• Chocolate desserts: Yes, it’s a cocktail and dessert all in one.

Presentation Tips:

• Use a thick-bottomed rocks glass for authenticity.
• Always garnish with an extra cherry and orange slice.
• Consider rimming the glass with sugar for a fancy twist (especially the sweet version).

Serve it with confidence, and people will assume you’ve been bartending for years.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple cocktail like the Brandy Old Fashioned can go wrong if you’re not careful. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure every drink is on point.

1. Using Low-Quality Brandy

Cheap brandy can be overly harsh or syrupy. You don’t need top-shelf, but avoid anything that tastes like cough syrup.

2. Over-Muddling

As mentioned earlier, mashing the fruit into a pulp makes your drink gritty and bitter. Gentle pressure is key.

3. Skipping the Bitters

It’s a small ingredient, but it makes a big difference. Without bitters, your drink may come off as flat or overly sweet.

4. Using the Wrong Mixer

Don’t just use any soda lying around. Stick to lemon-lime sodas for sweet, citrus sodas for sour, or follow the press method properly. The wrong soda can throw off the flavor balance.

5. Not Measuring

Eyeballing the brandy or bitters might seem cool, but it can lead to an unbalanced cocktail. Use a jigger for best results.

FAQs about Brandy Old Fashioned Recipe

1. What’s the difference between an Old Fashioned and a Brandy Old Fashioned?

The classic Old Fashioned is typically made with whiskey, while the Brandy Old Fashioned swaps in brandy for a smoother, fruitier taste—especially popular in Wisconsin.

2. Can I use flavored Brandy in a Brandy Old Fashioned?

Yes! Flavored brandies like cherry or apple can give your drink an extra twist. Just be cautious with sweetness and adjust your sugar accordingly.

3. How strong is a Brandy Old Fashioned?

With 2 oz of brandy and soda as the mixer, it’s moderately strong—similar to most cocktails. You can adjust the amount of brandy to suit your preference.

4. Can I make Brandy Old Fashioneds in advance?

Sort of. You can pre-mix the muddled base and brandy, but don’t add the soda until just before serving to keep it fizzy and fresh.

5. What’s the best glass to serve a Brandy Old Fashioned in?

A classic Old Fashioned (or rocks) glass is ideal. It holds just the right amount and fits ice cubes comfortably.

Conclusion

The Brandy Old Fashioned is more than just a drink—it’s a tradition, a conversation starter, and a comforting sip of Midwest hospitality. Whether you prefer it sweet, sour, or with a press, the beauty of this cocktail lies in its versatility and rich flavor.

Learning how to make it properly means you’re not just mixing a drink—you’re participating in a long-standing culture of good vibes, good company, and great taste. So next time you’re behind the bar, whether at home or with friends, go ahead and mix up a Brandy Old Fashioned. Cheers to you, the new master of Midwest cocktails!