The Bloody Mary. That vibrant, savory, often over-the-top concoction that blurs the line between a cocktail and a meal. It’s a drink that demands attention, a conversation starter, and a weekend ritual for many. But is it particularly Wisconsin? The short answer is a resounding yes. However, the “why” is far more interesting and deeply entwined with the state’s history, culture, and sheer love for a good time.
A Brief History of the Bloody Mary
Before diving into Wisconsin’s specific relationship with this iconic drink, let’s take a quick trip back to its origins. Most sources credit Fernand Petiot, a bartender at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris in the 1920s, with inventing the Bloody Mary. He reportedly created the drink as a hangover cure for Ernest Hemingway, mixing vodka and tomato juice. While the drink gained popularity in the United States, particularly in New York, it was a far cry from the over-the-top creations we often see today. The early versions were simple: vodka, tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, lemon juice, and celery salt.
Wisconsin’s Bloody Mary Love Affair: A Match Made in Brunch Heaven
So, how did Wisconsin become synonymous with the Bloody Mary? Several factors contribute to this enduring love affair.
The Midwestern Palate: Savory Over Sweet
Wisconsin’s culinary preferences tend to lean towards the savory. Think beer cheese soup, bratwurst, and Friday night fish fry. The Bloody Mary, with its tomato-based profile and spicy kick, fits perfectly within this flavor landscape. The drink provides a counterpoint to sweeter brunch offerings, making it a welcome alternative to mimosas and other sugary cocktails. This preference for savory flavors laid the foundation for Wisconsin’s embrace of the Bloody Mary.
The State’s Bar Culture: More Than Just a Drink
Wisconsin has a rich and vibrant bar culture. Taverns are often community hubs, places to gather, socialize, and unwind. The Bloody Mary, in its elaborate Wisconsin iteration, becomes more than just a drink; it’s an experience. Ordering one is almost a performance, a declaration that you’re ready to relax and enjoy the weekend. The social aspect of sharing a generously garnished Bloody Mary with friends is a significant part of its appeal.
The Supper Club Influence: A Tradition of Abundance
Supper clubs are an integral part of Wisconsin’s culinary identity. These establishments are known for their generous portions, relish trays, and overall sense of abundance. The over-the-top Bloody Mary, piled high with garnishes, mirrors this tradition of generosity. It’s a visual representation of Wisconsin’s hospitality and a willingness to go above and beyond. The sheer extravagance of the drink aligns perfectly with the supper club aesthetic.
The Rise of Brunch Culture: The Bloody Mary’s Perfect Stage
The increasing popularity of brunch has undoubtedly contributed to the Bloody Mary’s prominence in Wisconsin. Brunch provides the perfect setting for this savory cocktail, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a menu that complements its flavors. Wisconsin’s brunch scene has embraced the Bloody Mary, elevating it from a simple cocktail to a culinary masterpiece.
Wisconsin’s Unique Bloody Mary Style: Garnishes Gone Wild
What truly sets Wisconsin’s Bloody Marys apart is the sheer audacity of their garnishes. We’re not just talking about a celery stalk and a lemon wedge. In Wisconsin, a Bloody Mary is often a meal in itself.
The Standard Wisconsin Garnishes: A Foundation of Flavor
While variations abound, some garnishes are considered essential in a Wisconsin Bloody Mary. These include:
- Celery Stalk: The classic garnish, providing a refreshing crunch.
- Olives: Green olives, often stuffed with blue cheese or pimentos.
- Pickles: Dill pickles, gherkins, or even pickled asparagus.
- Lemon and Lime Wedges: For a citrusy zing.
- Cheese Curds: A Wisconsin staple, adding a creamy, salty element.
- Summer Sausage: A hearty, savory snack.
- Pickled Mushrooms: Adding an earthy, umami flavor.
These garnishes form the foundation upon which the more elaborate creations are built.
The Extravagant Additions: Taking it to the Next Level
Beyond the standard garnishes, Wisconsin bartenders have embraced a spirit of culinary experimentation, resulting in some truly outrageous Bloody Mary creations. These might include:
- Mini Burgers or Sliders: A substantial addition for the truly hungry.
- Bacon Strips: Because everything is better with bacon.
- Shrimp or Other Seafood: Adding a touch of elegance (and protein).
- Chicken Wings: Spicy and satisfying.
- Pretzels or Onion Rings: For a crunchy, salty snack.
- Entire Sandwiches or Pizza Slices: The ultimate in over-the-top indulgence.
The possibilities are truly endless, limited only by the bartender’s imagination and the size of the glass. This dedication to excess is what truly defines the Wisconsin Bloody Mary.
Beyond the Garnishes: The Bloody Mary Mix Matters
While the garnishes get most of the attention, the Bloody Mary mix itself is crucial. Wisconsin boasts a variety of local and regional Bloody Mary mixes, each with its own unique flavor profile.
Local Mixes: A Taste of Wisconsin
Many Wisconsin bars and restaurants create their own signature Bloody Mary mixes, using local ingredients and family recipes. These mixes often feature unique blends of spices, hot sauces, and even locally grown vegetables. Supporting these local businesses is a key part of the Wisconsin Bloody Mary experience.
Regional Brands: A Legacy of Flavor
Several Wisconsin-based companies specialize in producing high-quality Bloody Mary mixes. These brands often have a long history and a dedicated following. Their mixes are widely available throughout the state and are a testament to Wisconsin’s Bloody Mary obsession.
The Bloody Mary as a Symbol of Wisconsin Identity
In many ways, the Bloody Mary has become a symbol of Wisconsin identity. It represents the state’s love of good food, good drink, and good company. It’s a visual representation of Wisconsin’s hospitality and its willingness to embrace the unconventional.
A Culinary Ambassador: Spreading the Wisconsin Love
The Wisconsin-style Bloody Mary has gained popularity beyond the state’s borders, with bars and restaurants across the country adopting the over-the-top garnish approach. This spread of the Wisconsin Bloody Mary is a testament to its appeal and its ability to capture the spirit of Wisconsin hospitality.
A Source of Pride: Celebrating Wisconsin Culture
For many Wisconsinites, the Bloody Mary is a source of pride. It’s a tangible representation of the state’s unique culture and its unwavering commitment to having a good time. The drink is a conversation starter, a point of connection, and a reminder of what makes Wisconsin so special.
Conclusion: The Bloody Mary and Wisconsin – A Perfect Pairing
So, is the Bloody Mary a Wisconsin thing? Absolutely. It’s a reflection of the state’s culinary preferences, its vibrant bar culture, and its unwavering dedication to having a good time. The over-the-top garnishes, the locally crafted mixes, and the overall sense of abundance all contribute to the Bloody Mary’s unique Wisconsin identity. It’s more than just a cocktail; it’s a cultural icon. The Bloody Mary is a celebration of Wisconsin’s spirit, its hospitality, and its love for a good brunch. It is a testament to the fact that sometimes, more is definitely more. The next time you find yourself in Wisconsin, be sure to order a Bloody Mary. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
While the popularity and extravagance associated with the Bloody Mary have spread far beyond the borders of Wisconsin, its deepest roots and most enthusiastic embrace remain firmly planted in the Badger State. It’s a testament to Wisconsin’s culture of hearty food, convivial gatherings, and a playful spirit.
Why are Bloody Marys so popular in Wisconsin?
The Bloody Mary’s popularity in Wisconsin is often attributed to several factors, including the state’s strong drinking culture, its affinity for hearty food, and its large population of Polish and German immigrants who historically enjoyed savory breakfasts. The drink itself perfectly blends these elements, offering a combination of alcohol, spice, and substantial garnish that effectively serves as both a beverage and a meal. This aligns with Wisconsin’s tradition of enjoying relaxed, convivial gatherings centered around food and drink, particularly on weekends.
Furthermore, Wisconsin’s resourceful and inventive culinary spirit has led to the evolution of the Bloody Mary into a true spectacle. Bars and restaurants compete to create the most elaborate and over-the-top garnishes, transforming the drink into an edible art form. This competitive spirit, coupled with the drink’s inherent versatility and customizable nature, has cemented the Bloody Mary’s status as a quintessential Wisconsin experience, readily available and eagerly embraced throughout the state.
Are Bloody Marys actually a Wisconsin invention?
While Wisconsin has undoubtedly elevated the Bloody Mary to an art form, the drink’s origins lie outside the Badger State. The Bloody Mary is widely believed to have been invented in the 1920s at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, France, by bartender Fernand Petiot. The original recipe was a simple concoction of vodka, tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and Tabasco sauce.
However, Wisconsin has undeniably contributed to the Bloody Mary’s modern identity, particularly its elaborate garnishes. While the drink itself wasn’t born in Wisconsin, the state’s bars and restaurants have innovated and popularized the over-the-top, meal-like Bloody Marys that are now often associated with the drink. This includes the addition of items like sausages, cheese curds, pickles, olives, sliders, and even entire chickens, making the Wisconsin Bloody Mary a unique and unforgettable experience.
What are some common Bloody Mary garnishes in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin Bloody Marys are renowned for their incredibly diverse and often extravagant garnishes. Beyond the traditional celery stalk and olives, you’ll find a wide array of savory treats adorning these drinks. Common additions include various types of cheese, particularly Wisconsin cheese curds, as well as pickled vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and mushrooms. Sausages, ranging from traditional brats to spicy andouille, are also frequently skewered atop the glass.
The garnish creativity doesn’t stop there. Many establishments offer mini burgers or sliders, bacon-wrapped jalapenos, shrimp skewers, hard-boiled eggs, and even slices of pizza or fried chicken wings. The goal is often to create a drink that doubles as a substantial meal, a testament to Wisconsin’s hearty appetite and its desire to make every experience memorable. The specific garnishes can vary wildly from bar to bar, encouraging exploration and discovery.
Are there regional variations of Bloody Marys within Wisconsin?
While the general principle of a tomato-based cocktail with elaborate garnishes holds true throughout Wisconsin, there are indeed regional variations in Bloody Mary preparations. Northern Wisconsin, with its proximity to hunting and fishing grounds, often features game meats like venison sausage or smoked whitefish as prominent garnishes. You might also find more foraged ingredients like wild mushrooms or pickled ramps in these northern variations.
In contrast, southeastern Wisconsin, particularly around Milwaukee, might showcase a stronger influence from the region’s Polish and German heritage. This could manifest in the inclusion of kielbasa sausage, pierogi skewers, or sauerkraut as part of the garnish presentation. Additionally, specific bars and restaurants across the state will often have their own signature Bloody Mary recipes and garnish combinations, reflecting their unique culinary identity and catering to local tastes.
What type of vodka is typically used in Wisconsin Bloody Marys?
While the specific vodka used in a Wisconsin Bloody Mary can vary depending on the bar or restaurant and the preferences of the individual making the drink, there isn’t necessarily a dominant or universally preferred brand. Many establishments opt for mid-range, readily available vodkas that offer a good balance of quality and price. These vodkas typically have a neutral flavor profile that allows the other ingredients in the Bloody Mary mix and garnishes to shine through.
However, some establishments may choose to use higher-end or even flavored vodkas to enhance the drink’s complexity. Vodka infused with dill, horseradish, or bacon, for example, can add an extra layer of flavor to the Bloody Mary. Ultimately, the choice of vodka is often a matter of personal preference and the desired character of the final cocktail. Local Wisconsin distilleries are also gaining popularity, with some bars showcasing their products in their Bloody Marys.
What makes a good Bloody Mary mix in Wisconsin?
A good Bloody Mary mix in Wisconsin is characterized by a robust and well-balanced flavor profile that caters to a wide range of palates. The base should be a high-quality tomato juice, ideally with a rich and slightly tangy flavor. The mix should also have a noticeable kick of spice, derived from ingredients like horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, and black pepper. The overall flavor should be savory and complex, with a hint of acidity to cut through the richness of the other ingredients.
Many bars and restaurants in Wisconsin pride themselves on their homemade Bloody Mary mixes, often using secret family recipes or unique ingredient combinations. Some popular additions include pickle juice, celery salt, garlic powder, and even beer. The best mixes are those that can be customized to individual preferences, allowing patrons to adjust the level of spice and other flavors to create their perfect Bloody Mary experience. The key is to create a mix that is both flavorful and versatile, providing a strong foundation for the elaborate garnishes that define the Wisconsin Bloody Mary.
Where are some of the best places to find a Bloody Mary in Wisconsin?
Finding the “best” Bloody Mary in Wisconsin is a subjective endeavor, as tastes vary and many establishments offer excellent versions of the drink. However, certain bars and restaurants consistently receive high praise for their creative and delicious Bloody Marys. Some popular destinations include Sobelman’s Pub & Grill in Milwaukee, known for its over-the-top garnishes including a whole fried chicken, and The Old Fashioned in Madison, which offers a classic Wisconsin experience with a focus on local ingredients.
Beyond these well-known spots, many smaller bars and restaurants throughout the state boast their own unique and noteworthy Bloody Mary creations. Local recommendations and online reviews can be valuable resources for discovering hidden gems in different regions of Wisconsin. Ultimately, the best way to find your favorite Bloody Mary is to explore the state’s diverse culinary scene and try out different establishments until you find one that perfectly suits your taste.