Best Wisconsinite Beverage Types
RumChata is a rum-based cream liqueur that is produced in Wisconsin. The base is made with light Caribbean rum that is distilled five times. It is then mixed with locally-sourced fresh dairy cream, sugar, and a spice blend that includes vanilla and cinnamon.
The drink was modeled on horchata—a creamy drink popular in Spain and Latin America that usually combines rice, milk, sugar, and spices. The name is also a reference to the drink—it is a portmanteau of rum and horchata. RumChata is a light, creamy liqueur that is not overly sweet or cloying.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Brandy Old-Fashioned is a Wisconsin variation of a classic Old-Fashioned cocktail. While the standard Old-Fashioned is made with whiskey, sugar, Angostura bitters, Maraschino cherries, orange slices, and a splash of club soda or water, this regional variety swaps whiskey with brandy, and it is typically topped with lemon and lime soda, such as Sprite or 7 Up, instead of soda water.
To make the cocktail, orange is muddled with sugar or a sugar cube, Angostura, and cherries. After adding brandy, the drink is stirred and finished with a large ice cube and a splash of soda. It is served in an old-fashioned glass, and it is usually garnished with an orange slice and a Maraschino cherry.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
This creamy cocktail with a pink color is made with a combination of crème de noyaux, white crème de cacao, and heavy cream. In order to prepare it, all ingredients should be shaken with ice, then strained into a chilled cocktail glass.
If desired, the cocktail can be garnished with mint leaves. It is believed that the first version of Pink Squirrel was prepared in the 1940s at a cocktail lounge in Wisconsin. Nowadays, it can be quite tricky to find crème de noyaux, so it is recommended to replace it with a combination of amaretto and grenadine when in doubt.
Best Wisconsinite Beverage Producers
Rishi Tea & Botanicals is a renowned brand specializing in high-quality organic teas and botanical products. With a commitment to direct trade and sustainability, Rishi Tea brings authentic and carefully sourced teas from various parts of the world, including China, Japan, Taiwan, and India.
Their offerings cover a wide range, from classic black and green teas to innovative botanical infusions, matcha powders, and various tea accessories. Rishi Tea focuses on supporting sustainable practices in production and export, delivering tea that combines tradition with innovation.
BEST Rishi Tea & Botanicals Teas and Herbal Infusions
Knowlton House Distillery, located in Knowlton, Wisconsin, is a family-owned distillery with deep roots in the state's dairy industry. Founded by Luke and Heather Mullins, the distillery honors their heritage by crafting spirits from milk sugars, a byproduct of cheese production.
Their flagship line, TenHead Spirits, includes vodka and gin known for their exceptional smoothness and quality. The distillery also produces whiskey using traditional grain bills sourced from local Wisconsin farms. Visitors can enjoy tours, tastings, and dining experiences that showcase the distillery's commitment to local ingredients and craftsmanship.
AWARDS
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
BEST Knowlton House Distillery Spirits
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
BEST J Henry & Sons Spirits
AWARDS
World Beer Cup - Gold
2018
BEST Milwaukee Brewing Co. - 2nd Street Brewery Beers
AWARDS
USA Wine Ratings - Gold
2022, 2020
BEST von Stiehl Winery Wines
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