Cheers to Traditions with Old-Fashioneds
“The Old-Fashioned was an evolution of the Whiskey Cocktail, which was simply whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water, and was served as early as 1800 or so,” explains cocktail authority Robert Simonson, author of The Old-Fashioned: The Story of the World’s First Classic Cocktail, with Recipes and Lore. “When bartenders in the 1870s and 1880s began adding embellishments to their Whiskey Cocktails, some customers rebelled against the innovations,” preferring the traditional version and thus ordering “old-fashioned whiskey cocktails” instead. “That name was eventually shortened to Old-Fashioned.”
Sure, a whiskey Old-Fashioned is delicious, but did you know that Wisconsin’s official state cocktail is a brandy Old-Fashioned? Discover where in Beloit you can get the tastiest Old-Fashioneds, hand-crafted to fit your palette.
Try out our Beloit & Beyond Beers & Cheers trail to hit up all the great spots with amazing cocktails, including many establishments that craft their very own unique spin on Old-Fashioneds. Check in at the stops and earn prizes along the way! Enjoy the beverage scene in Beloit!
Whether you’re in the mood for a whiskey, bourbon, or brandy Old-Fashioned, the staff at Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint know just how to make a special combo for you with their countless options of whiskey, including over 50+ upscale selections. Try out their specialty Old-Fashioned, the 608 Old-Fashioned, which includes a Wisconsin traditional favorite mixture of Korbel brandy, muddled cherries and oranges, simple syrup, bitters, and Sprite.
Wisconsinites know that a supper club Old-Fashioned is no joke. The Butterfly Club in Beloit is a great place to get your Old-Fashioned fix. Not to mention, it pairs really well with a fish fry or prime rib. Take a seat at the bar and tap into the spirits there, or enjoy your Old-Fashioned at a table in the dining room.
For a literal “elevated” experience, head up to The Rooftop at Hotel Goodwin. Their back-lit bar is filled is plenty of options fit just for you. Although, when you are there, you have to try the Old-Fashioned – Wisco Style made with Korbel brandy, bitters, and Sprite. Take your drinks outside to see the picturesque views of downtown Beloit.
READY FOR ANOTHER ROUND? TRY OUT THESE SPOTS:
- Levi Anderson, owner of 5BAR in Beloit, has endless liquor options to craft a top-notch Old-Fashioned. Although, if you are looking for something more unique, try out the Cold Fashioned, a nice blend of bourbon, cold brew coffee, demerara sugar, and bitters.
- Over at The 615 Club, enjoy a classic supper club meal along with an Old-Fashioned flight! On Thursday nights, pick four of your favorite liquors, and the bartender will make you four mini Old-Fashioneds. Order your favorite go-to liquors or try out something new!
- At Boundaries Bar & Grill, you’ll find hand muddled Old-Fashioneds, including their Pecan Old-Fashioned. You may even be lucky when you stop in and snag a $4 rail whiskey or brandy Old-Fashioned!
- Although CheezHEAD Brewing is widely known for their craft beer, they do offer an exceptional Driftless Glen Brandy Old-Fashioned that is worth a try! They even make delicious seasonal cocktails throughout the year.
- Sarah at Hatley’s Pub is a superstar behind the bar! Try out Hatley’s specialty Walnut Maple Bourbon Old- Fashioned, made with Bulleit Bourbon, walnut bitters, and maple syrup, garnished with an orange and Luxardo Cherry.
- For something simple but still scrumptious, Hidden Creek Estates has an extensive whiskey list with a great atmosphere. Select your whiskey of choice and have it served as a pre-prohibition era Old-Fashioned.
- The Rock Bar & Grill can whip up a tasty, classic Old-Fashioned, but for a unique twist, try their Brandy Slush – certainly a Midwestern classic cocktail!
