1894 Milwaukee Brandy Revolution

Brandy Popularity

Notably, according to Jeanette Hurt, the author of “Wisconsin Cocktails,” German Wisconsinites were particularly enamored with the brandy crafted by the Korbel brothers, a preference that soon gained popularity across the state.

By 1894, brandy had surged in popularity, catalyzing a cocktail revolution in Milwaukee, where classic cocktails began to feature brandy instead of whiskey. The “Brandy Old Fashioned” became especially favored among the younger German demographic, solidifying its status as the preferred drink of Wisconsinites.

Brandy Shortage

Post-World War II, a shortage of quality brandy prompted Wisconsin distributors to search far and wide to meet the rising demand. They succeeded in procuring an exclusive stash of 30,000 cases of meticulously aged brandy from Christian Brothers, satisfying the appetite for quality brandy in the state.

AmBRu Campaign

However, American Brandy gradually lost its market share over the years. In a pivotal moment in 1964, Congress bestowed special recognition upon Bourbon, designating it as a signature product of the United States and providing global quality protection. In response, the AmBRu Campaign emerged, advocating for a similar level of recognition and protection for American Brandy, aiming to honor its historical significance and uphold quality standards for the United States of America.