Overview: Bartenders have selected the definitive cocktails for the Brewers versus Rays matchup in the 2026 World Series. The selection process resulted in a dead tie between the two teams, with the Wisconsin Old Fashioned emerging as a top contender despite its controversial status among spirits purists. Published by USA TODAY 10BEST on Oct. 23, 2026, the guide highlights five distinct recipes for fans to enjoy during Game 1 and beyond.
The Full Story
Five bartenders contributed five recipes for the contest, resulting in a final vote of Milwaukee 2, Tampa Bay 2, with one abstention. The Brewers’ top pick is the Wisconsin Old Fashioned, a state-infamous drink that replaces traditional whiskey with brandy. Molly Horn, chief mixologist and spirits educator at Total Wine & More, describes the version as surprisingly refreshing due to citrus and soda sparkle.
Tim Sweeney, bar manager and partner at Pebble Bar, noted that 49 states would not dare muddle a cherry or orange in their Old Fashioneds. He stated Wisconsindrinks aren’t built for competitions, noting it is meant to be a tie to where you’re from and the people you grew up with.
Production & Profile
The Wisconsin Old Fashioned recipe from Horn utilizes 1.5 oz brandy, a sugar cube, an orange slice, a maraschino cherry, Angostura bitters, and Sprite to top. Sweeney’s variation, titled Van Down By The River, incorporates 2 oz Korbel brandy, Rose’s grenadine, demerara syrup, and six dashes of Angostura bitters as a tribute to Chris Farley. Bridget Albert from Southern Glazer’s offered a Maple-Ginger Twist using 2 oz brandy, maple syrup, aromatic bitters, orange bitters, and ginger beer.
For the Rays side, Lauren Trickett at Rémy Cointreau created a Spicy Passionfruit Margarita with tequila blanco, Cointreau, passionfruit puree, and hellfire bitters. Giovanny Gutierrez contributed the Ybor City Slugger, a highball featuring Bacardi Reserva Ocho, guava nectar, lime juice, and Revello Ginger Beer.
Brand & Industry History
The Brewers are set to compete in their first World Series since 1982. Pebble Bar served the Chris Farley-inspired Brandy Old Fashioned Sweet as a tribute to the late Chris Farley for SNL’s 50th anniversary, noting he was a Wisconsin native who attended the same high school as Sweeney. Molly Horn acknowledged that haters might have a point about the drink’s authenticity but emphasized its appeal.
What This Means
The final verdict reflects a split in sentiment regarding regional identity versus competitive spirit. Albert and Horn both sided with the Brewers, citing history and connection to the Midwest. Gutierrez expressed that Milwaukee can take the first round while Tampa is walking it off. Trickett kept her vote to herself.
Consumer Takeaway
Fans can play along from their couch by following the provided recipes for the Wisconsin Old Fashioned or the Rays-specific cocktails. Ingredients are available at retailers like Total Wine and More, Williams-Sonoma, and Target. The drinks range from a classic brandy swap to spicy margaritas and guava rum highballs suitable for World Series watch parties.
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