2024 Brandy Old Fashioned Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

Six Honorees From Across Wisconsin Recognized for Crafting the State’s Iconic Cocktail

MILWAUKEE, Wis. (DATE, 2024) — Central Standard Craft Distillery co-founders Evan Hughes and Pat McQuillan unveiled this year’s inductees into the Milwaukee-based Brandy Old Fashioned Hall of Fame. Celebrating Wisconsin’s most iconic cocktail, this year’s honorees were selected from hundreds of nominations across the state for their dedication to perfecting the brandy old fashioned.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the many heartfelt nominations we received this year,” said Hughes. “These awards honor not only the cocktail but the passion and stories behind each honoree’s journey to mastering Wisconsin’s beloved drink. Reading each submission was truly a joy.”

The 2024 Brandy Old Fashioned Hall of Fame inductees include:

• Gary Ver Voort (Freedom, WI) – Owner of Gary’s Premium Cocktails, Gary began his journey in his kitchen, driven by a quest for a consistent taste. Today, his mix has become a Wisconsin staple, sold in over 3,500 locations nationwide, spreading the state’s beloved cocktail coast to coast.

• Dale Butenhof (Muskego, WI) – With over 40 years of dedication, Dale has made the brandy old fashioned a lifestyle. Known for his ever-present cocktail and growing old fashioned-themed wardrobe, he’s even inspired his son to perfect his own recipe in his honor.
• Ryan Polzin (Waukesha, WI) – Known for his unique approach to crafting the brandy old fashioned, Ryan has earned a local following, with fans returning for his signature recipe. His tradition continues with his son, who joins him whenever he visits Wisconsin, bonding over shared memories.
• Allan Kubisiak (Wisconsin Rapids, WI) – Allan views the brandy old fashioned as a centerpiece for family gatherings and special moments. Known for his “Kuby Style” cocktail, Allan brings Wisconsin warmth and tradition to every celebration.
• Bob Prosser (Lake Delton, WI) – As owner of Ishnala Supper Club, ranked #1 Supper Club in Wisconsin, Bob upholds a tradition of excellence, crafting old fashioneds with unmatched quality. This season alone, Ishnala served over 118,650 old fashioneds, drawing fans from near and far.
• Kevin Keckhaver (Muskego, WI) – Kevin’s smoked brandy old fashioned, made with North Wisconsin Brandy and unique cherry twists, has become a favorite among family and friends, keeping the spirit of Wisconsin hospitality alive.

Hall of Fame Honors

Each inductee will receive lifetime VIP status at Central Standard Crafthouse & Kitchen, have their name added to a commemorative plaque, and receive a year’s supply of North Wisconsin Brandy, complete with a custom bottle featuring their photo.

The nomination process began on September 3, as part of Wisconsin’s Brandy Old Fashioned Month. Submissions were accepted through September 30, with the final selections made by a panel of judges based on the strength of each nominee’s story. The 2024 inductees will be honored at a special ceremony in February in Milwaukee.

Last year’s Hall of Fame included Wisconsin and Illinois honorees, including a 96-year-old grandmother and her son, all united by their love for the brandy old fashioned.

“We love celebrating the creativity and tradition that make Wisconsin’s brandy old fashioneds so special,” Hughes added. “This program showcases the best of what our state has to offer and encourages Wisconsinites to fuel their cocktails with locally made brandy.”

Celebrating 10 Years and New Products 

In its 10th anniversary year, Central Standard Craft Distillery has expanded significantly, with over 33.5% growth this year. New releases include Apple Bourbon Cream and Cherry Bourbon Cream, alongside fan favorites like Ready-to-Drink cocktails, Door County Cherry Vodka, and North Wisconsin Brandy.

To stay up to date on all Central Standard products, events and happenings, visit thecentralstandard.com or follow them on Facebook or Instagram. 

About Central Standard Distillery 

Central Standard Craft Distillery, a small-batch, craft distillery in Milwaukee and the fastest-growing top-10 Wisconsin-based distiller, handcrafts award-winning bourbon, whiskey, vodka and gin from locally sourced ingredients, including cherries grown in Door County and honey harvested in Germantown. Founded in 2014, Central Standard spirits have won 40 medals across multiple craft distilling categories. As part of their commitment to sustainability, Central Standard is certified by the USDA-recognized Grown Climate Smart program, which ensures grains are grown using environmentally responsible practices. Learn more at thecentralstandard.com, or by following them on instagram.com/thecentralstandard/ or facebook.com/thecentralstandard.

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*You must be 21 or older and a fan of great craft cocktails to enjoy our spirits. Please drink responsibly.