[
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "where%20can%20I%20buy%20Kirkland%20old-fashoned%20other%20than%20from%20kossko"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "If you're looking to buy the **Kirkland Signature Old Fashioned (ready-to-drink)** other than via \u201cKossko\u201d \u2014 here's where and how you can get it:\n\n---\n\n### \ud83d\uded2 Official / Primary Retailers\n\n1. **Costco Warehouses**\n   - This is the *main* place to buy the Kirkland Old Fashioned. It\u2019s typically sold in a 1-liter bottle, with statements confirming it is available in many Costco locations. ([app.warehouserunner.com](https://app.warehouserunner.com/costco/1795043-kirkland-signature-rtd-old-fashioned-tennessee-1l?utm_source=openai))  \n   - Prices may vary by location, ranging roughly between **$17\u2013$20** in many areas. ([app.warehouserunner.com](https://app.warehouserunner.com/costco/1795043-kirkland-signature-rtd-old-fashioned-tennessee-1l?utm_source=openai))  \n\n2. **Costco\u2019s Online Platforms**\n   - Costco\u2019s website and same-day delivery services (where permitted by local liquor laws) list the 1L bottle of *Kirkland Signature Ready-to-Drink Old Fashioned Tennessee*. ([sameday.costco.com](https://sameday.costco.com/store/costco-beer-wine-spirits/products/64240976-kirkland-signature-ready-to-drink-old-fashioned-tennessee-1l?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n### \ud83d\udd04 Other Sellers & Outlets\n\n3. **Third-Party Retailers (Liquor Stores)**\n   - Licensed retailers may carry it. For example, Maine Spirits lists it in stock. ([mainespirits.com](https://mainespirits.com/products/kirkland-signature-old-fashioned-rtd?utm_source=openai))  \n   - However, availability is likely patchy, so calling ahead is highly recommended.\n\n4. **Marketplace & Resale Sites**\n   - Sometimes, bottles show up on sites like Amazon, eBay, or regional resellers. Guard against inflated prices and check reviews carefully. ([flavor365.com](https://flavor365.com/finding-kirkland-signature-products-all-your-options/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n### \ud83d\udccd What to Check Before You Buy\n\n- **State Liquor Laws**: In some states, Costco cannot sell liquor directly and must route sales through external liquor stores. So even though it\u2019s a Costco brand, it might be found in a separate, third-party liquor store that Costco contracts with.  \n- **Stock Variability**: Since it\u2019s a new-ish RTD (released around 2025), supply may be inconsistent. ([thetakeout.com](https://www.thetakeout.com/1758253/costco-new-kirkland-signature-old-fashioned-cocktail/?utm_source=openai))  \n- **Bottle Size and ABV**: The 1L bottle is 37% ABV (74 proof). ([rtdmagazine.com](https://rtdmagazine.com/blogs/rtd-cocktail-ratings/costco-kirkland-bottled-old-fashioned?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\nIf you tell me your ZIP code or state, I can help locate stores *near you* where it's in stock. Want me to pull that together?"
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "53706"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here are some nearby options in the **53706 (Madison, WI)** area where you might find Costco\u2019s *Kirkland Signature Old Fashioned* RTD, plus tips to help increase your chances of locating it.\n\n---\n\n### \ud83d\udccd Nearby Stores to Check\n\n- **Regent Liquor**  \n  Address: 916 Regent Street, Madison, WI 53715 (about 3 miles north of 53706)  \n  They carry a wide selection of liquors and ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails. It\u2019s worth calling to ask if they currently have the Kirkland Old Fashioned in stock. ([regentliquor.com](https://www.regentliquor.com/?utm_source=openai))\n\n- **Pick 'n Save** stores with liquor departments in Madison  \n  Some Pick \u2019n Save locations near 53706 include:  \n  \u2022 2502 Shopko Dr., Madison, WI 53704  \n  \u2022 1312 Park St., Madison, WI 53715 ([picknsave.com](https://www.picknsave.com/stores/liquor/wi/madison?utm_source=openai))  \n  These stores sometimes stock RTDs. It may require calling ahead.\n\n---\n\n### \ud83c\udfec Best Bet: Costco\n\n- Costco often has this bottle in its liquor section. Because laws vary by county and state, not all Costco locations will carry alcohol or the Kirkland branded spirits. ([rtdmagazine.com](https://rtdmagazine.com/blogs/rtd-cocktail-ratings/costco-kirkland-bottled-old-fashioned?utm_source=openai))  \n- Trying your nearest Costco Warehouse is probably the best direct option. If you tell me your most convenient Costco address, I can check its inventory if available.\n\n---\n\n### \ud83d\udd0d What to Do Next\n\n1. **Call ahead before heading out.** Even if a store lists a \u201cwide selection of RTDs,\u201d the Kirkland Old Fashioned is relatively new and sometimes out of stock.  \n2. **Ask specifically for \u201cKirkland RTD Old Fashioned, 1 L, 74 proof.\u201d** That helps associate the exact product during your inquiry.  \n3. **Check in-store liquor \u201cspecialty\u201d aisles.** Got to larger liquor stores or big grocery stores that have full liquor sections.  \n\nIf you want, I can check live inventory for a few nearby locations and send you specific stores that currently have it in stock. Do you want me to do that?"
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "what%20proof%20is%20most%20irish%20whiskeys"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Most Irish whiskeys are bottled at **40% alcohol by volume (ABV)**, which corresponds to **80 proof** in the U.S. system. ([whisky.com](https://www.whisky.com/irish-whiskey.html?utm_source=openai))\n\nHere are some nuances to keep in mind:\n\n---\n\n### \u2696\ufe0f Legal Standards and ABV Rules\n\n- Irish Whiskey law requires that bottlings must be at least 40% ABV. ([whisky.com](https://www.whisky.com/irish-whiskey.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- The spirit must be distilled to less than 94.8% ABV before being aged. ([revenue.ie](https://www.revenue.ie/en/tax-professionals/tdm/excise/gi-verification-irish-whiskey-and-irish-poteen/geographical-indication-for-irish-whiskey-and-irish-poteen-poitin-20160503131557.pdf?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n### \ud83d\udd0d Common Practice and Variations\n\n- While 40% ABV (80 proof) is the standard, many whiskeys are bottled slightly higher\u2014often in the **43\u201346% ABV** range\u2014to add a bit more flavor or richness. ([whisky.com](https://www.whisky.com/irish-whiskey.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- Some premium and specialty expressions (such as cask strength releases) can go much higher\u2014and these, by nature, aren\u2019t diluted down to the typical 40\u201346% range. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cask_strength?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\nIn short: when you're picking up a bottle of Irish whiskey, you\u2019ll almost always be dealing with something around **80 proof (40% ABV)** unless it\u2019s a special expression, in which case it may be stronger."
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "what%20is%20in%20an%20old-fashoned%2C%20not%20brandy"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "An **Old-Fashioned** (using whiskey, not brandy) is one of the simplest and oldest classic cocktails. Here\u2019s what goes into it, plus some optional tweaks.\n\n---\n\n### \ud83e\udd43 Core Ingredients\n\n1. **Whiskey**  \n   Most often bourbon or rye, though some people use other styles like Irish or Tennessee whiskey.\n\n2. **Bitters**  \n   Traditionally aromatic bitters. Angostura is the classic choice.\n\n3. **Sugar**  \n   Either a sugar cube or simple syrup.\n\n4. **Water**  \n   A splash to help dissolve the sugar (or a few drops, depending on method).\n\n5. **Ice**  \n   Usually one large ice cube or several smaller ones.\n\n---\n\n### \ud83c\udf4a Garnishes (Optional but Traditional)\n\n- **Orange peel or twist** \u2014 expressed over the drink to release its oils, then dropped or placed on top.  \n- **Maraschino cherry** \u2014 frequently added, though purists sometimes skip this or use a high-quality cocktail cherry.\n\n---\n\n### \u2699\ufe0f Basic Preparation (Classic Method)\n\n- Place sugar cube in an Old-Fashioned glass (or use ~\u00bd teaspoon simple syrup).  \n- Add a few dashes of bitters.  \n- Add a small splash of water.  \n- Muddle (if using a sugar cube) to dissolve sugar and mix with bitters.  \n- Add whiskey.  \n- Add ice.  \n- Stir gently to chill and dilute slightly.  \n- Garnish with orange peel (and optionally cherry).\n\n---\n\nIf you\u2019re curious about variations (e.g. using different bitters, smoked sugar, etc.), I can send some fun twists."
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "what%20goes%20in%20a%20brandy%20old-fashoned"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here\u2019s what goes into a **Brandy Old Fashioned**, especially the Wisconsin-style version\u2014it\u2019s different enough from the classic whiskey Old Fashioned that it basically deserves its own category.\n\n---\n\n### \ud83e\uddfe Core Ingredients\n\nThese are what you\u2019ll typically find in a Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned:  \n- Brandy (often Korbel) \u2014 the base spirit. ([bonappetit.com](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/wisconsin-brandy-old-fashioned?utm_source=openai))  \n- Sugar \u2014 usually a cube or sugar syrup. ([diffordsguide.com](https://www.diffordsguide.com/cocktails/recipe/5101/brandy-old-fashioned-wisconsin-style?utm_source=openai))  \n- Bitters \u2014 typically Angostura. ([diffordsguide.com](https://www.diffordsguide.com/cocktails/recipe/5101/brandy-old-fashioned-wisconsin-style?utm_source=openai))  \n- Muddled fruit \u2014 orange slice + cherries are standard. ([wisconsin.com](https://www.wisconsin.com/Wisconsin/Travel/TravelRestaurantsSupperClubsBrandy.php?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n### \ud83d\udca7 Soda / Mixer Type\n\nOne of the most defining things about the Wisconsin-style is the mixer on top. The drink often gets a splash\u2014or more\u2014of soda or a citrus soda. What you use depends on how you order it:\n\n- **Sweet**: topped with lemon-lime soda like 7-Up or Sprite. ([bonappetit.com](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/wisconsin-brandy-old-fashioned?utm_source=openai))  \n- **Sour**: uses grapefruit soda (Squirt) or a sour mix. ([diffordsguide.com](https://www.diffordsguide.com/cocktails/recipe/5101/brandy-old-fashioned-wisconsin-style?utm_source=openai))  \n- **Press**: a combination\u2014half lemon-lime soda, half club soda. ([diffordsguide.com](https://www.diffordsguide.com/cocktails/recipe/5101/brandy-old-fashioned-wisconsin-style?utm_source=openai))  \n\nBars in Wisconsin will usually ask whether you want it \u201csweet\u201d, \u201csour\u201d, or \u201cpress\u201d when you order. ([diffordsguide.com](https://www.diffordsguide.com/cocktails/recipe/5101/brandy-old-fashioned-wisconsin-style?utm_source=openai))\n\n---\n\n### \ud83c\udf4a Garnishes & Finish\n\nIt\u2019ll usually have:\n\n- An orange slice or wedge (sometimes muddled with sugar and bitters) ([diffordsguide.com](https://www.diffordsguide.com/cocktails/recipe/5101/brandy-old-fashioned-wisconsin-style?utm_source=openai))  \n- A maraschino cherry, or brandied cherry (often muddled, too) ([bonappetit.com](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/wisconsin-brandy-old-fashioned?utm_source=openai))  \n- Ice \u2014 either a few cubes or crushed, depending on the bar. ([diffordsguide.com](https://www.diffordsguide.com/cocktails/recipe/5101/brandy-old-fashioned-wisconsin-style?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n### \ud83d\udee0 Step-by-Step Construction\n\nHere\u2019s how these ingredients come together:\n\n1. Muddle sugar (or use syrup), bitters, orange slice, and cherries in an Old Fashioned glass. ([diffordsguide.com](https://www.diffordsguide.com/cocktails/recipe/5101/brandy-old-fashioned-wisconsin-style?utm_source=openai))  \n2. Add ice. ([gardenandgun.com](https://gardenandgun.com/recipe/brandy-old-fashioned?utm_source=openai))  \n3. Pour in the brandy. ([liquor.com](https://www.liquor.com/recipes/brandy-old-fashioned/?utm_source=openai))  \n4. Top with soda (whatever you\u2019ve chosen). Sweet, sour, or press. ([wineenthusiast.com](https://www.wineenthusiast.com/culture/spirits/wisconsin-old-fashioned-recipe?utm_source=openai))  \n5. Garnish with the orange and cherry. ([diffordsguide.com](https://www.diffordsguide.com/cocktails/recipe/5101/brandy-old-fashioned-wisconsin-style?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\nIf you tell me which version you're looking to make (sweet/sour/press, how much alcohol vs mixer, fancy fruit or garnish), I can help dial in a recipe that hits what you like."
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "where%20can%20I%20buy%20already%20bottled%20brandy%20old-fashionsed%20not%20at%20kosccos"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "If you're looking to buy **pre-bottled Brandy Old Fashioneds** (not whiskey versions), there *are* several options\u2014both RTDs (ready-to-drink cocktails) and pre-mixed brandies designed to mimic the Wisconsin Brandy Old Fashioned flavor. Here are some off-the-shelf picks you might find, plus where to look outside of Costco-type big-box stores.\n\n---\n\n## \ud83c\udf79 Bottled / Ready-to-Drink Options\n\nHere are several already made Brandy Old Fashioned drinks you could buy:\n\n| Product | ABV / Bottle Size | Flavor Profile | Where to Find |\n|---|---|---|---|\n| **Driftwood Old Fashioned** | 35% ABV | House-distilled & barrel-aged brandy + bitters + cane sugar\u2014stir over ice with an orange peel. ([mashandgrape.com](https://www.mashandgrape.com/products/driftwood-old-fashioned?utm_source=openai)) | Direct from distilleries like Driftwood (Oregon) or liquor stores with curated cocktail sections. |\n| **Central Standard Brandy Old Fashioned** (RTD, 1.75 L) | 27.5% ABV | Built around North Brandy; designed for pouring & mixing. ([thecentralstandard.com](https://thecentralstandard.com/introducing-our-rtd-brandy-old-fashioned/?utm_source=openai)) | Liquor retailers in Wisconsin; check their online inventory or local craft distilleries. |\n| **Tattersall Brandy Old Fashioned** (liqueur / pre-mixed in a bottle) | ~35% ABV (70 proof) | Brandy infused with sour cherry, orange, cranberry liqueurs + bitters\u2014made to resemble the full cocktail. ([tattersalldistilling.com](https://www.tattersalldistilling.com/products/brandy-old-fashioned/?utm_source=openai)) | Available in liquor stores in Wisconsin and select locations in Minnesota. Use \u201cFind a Retailer\u201d tools on their website. ([tattersalldistilling.com](https://www.tattersalldistilling.com/products/brandy-old-fashioned/?utm_source=openai)) |\n| **Berens Old Fashioned Brandy** (from Dancing Goat Distillery) | \u2014 | A 6-year old brandy selected for making Old Fashioneds. Less the full cocktail; good for mixing or adding soda. ([barriquesmarket.com](https://barriquesmarket.com/products/berens-old-fashioned-brandy?utm_source=openai)) | Barriques stores in Madison, Fitchburg, Middleton (WI). In-store pickup only for spirits. ([barriquesmarket.com](https://barriquesmarket.com/products/berens-old-fashioned-brandy?utm_source=openai)) |\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udd0d Where to Check If Your Local Store Carries Them\n\n- **Local Liquor Stores**: Especially ones that stock craft distillery or RTD sections. In Wisconsin, distilleries like Tattersall, Central Standard, Dancing Goat often distribute locally.  \n- **Distillery Outlets**: If you\u2019re near a distillery that makes a Brandy Old Fashioned product, call them to see if they ship or can drop-ship to your area.  \n- **Online Spirit Retailers** (where legal in your state). Sites like Drizly, Total Wine, ReserveBar, or smaller stores that ship. Search by product name (\u201cBrandy Old Fashioned\u201d + brand) or distillery.  \n- **Supermarket Chains With Liquor Departments**: In some states, you\u2019ll find specialty drinks in chains like Wegmans, Publix, H-E-B, etc., especially those that have a large selection.  \n- **\u201cCraft/Artisan Spirits Markets\u201d**: Shops specializing in boutique or regional offerings often carry Tattersall, Central Standard, and so on.\n\n---\n\nIf you tell me what state you\u2019re in (or ZIP), I can try to find listings near you so you can get one without shipping hassles."
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "how%20would%20you%20describe%20the%20difference%20in%20taste%20between%20a%20brandy%20old-fashoned%20and%20a%20burban%20one"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here\u2019s how a **Brandy Old Fashioned** usually tastes compared to a **Bourbon Old Fashioned**, plus some thinking about what really shifts when you swap the base spirit.\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udd04 What\u2019s Similar\n\nBoth cocktails share the old-fashioned foundation: sugar, bitters, water/ice, and usually an orange peel (and cherry in many brandy versions). Because of that:\n\n- You\u2019ll get **sweetness** upfront \u2014 from the sugar and whatever fruit or muddled garnish is used.  \n- You\u2019ll get the bitters cutting through a little herbal/spice edge.  \n- The citrus (often orange) still plays a role, giving aroma and brightness.  \n\nSo the structure and hybrid sweetness-bitter-citrus profile is comparable in both. But where the base spirit comes in is in everything else.\n\n---\n\n## \ud83c\udf47 What Brand y Brings to the Table\n\n- Brandy is distilled from fruit \u2014 often grapes \u2014 so its **fruitiness** tends to come through more clearly. Think raisins, dried fruit, ripe stone fruit, sometimes even floral notes. ([whiskeywatch.com](https://whiskeywatch.com/whiskey-varieties/bourbon-vs-brandy/?utm_source=openai))  \n- If aged, brandy also picks up oak, vanilla, spice, and woody notes, though generally milder in tannin than bourbon. ([whisky-world.com](https://whisky-world.com/knowledge/basics/brandy-vs-bourbon/?utm_source=openai))  \n- The finish and texture often feel smoother or softer, especially in Wisconsin-style variants where soda or fruit add extra sweetness and mask some bite.  \n\n---\n\n## \ud83e\udd43 What Bourbon Brings\n\n- Bourbon adds richer **caramel, vanilla, toffee** flavors \u2014 thanks to its corn-heavy mash and the interaction with new, charred oak barrels. ([flightwinebar.com](https://flightwinebar.com/alcohol/bourbon/what-does-bourbon-taste-like/?utm_source=openai))  \n- There\u2019s usually a stronger oak / char presence \u2014 more charred wood, possibly tobacco, baking spices (clove, nutmeg, cinnamon), and deeper toasted or smoky notes. ([bourbonexcursions.com](https://www.bourbonexcursions.com/bourbon-blog/bourbon-vs-brandy?utm_source=openai))  \n- Texture tends to be fuller-bodied, somewhat warmer (alcohol burn) felt more, especially when muddled lightly with sugar and bitters.  \n\n---\n\n## \u2696\ufe0f Taste Comparison: Old Fashioned vs Brandy Old Fashioned\n\n| Flavor Aspect | Brand y Old Fashioned | Bourb on Old Fashioned |\n|---------------|------------------------|-------------------------|\n| **Overall Sweetness** | Sweeter up front, especially if fruit is muddled and soft. Soda (if used) adds to sweetness. | Sweet too, but the sweetness often feels balanced by oak, vanilla, and mellow spice. Less dominated by fruit. |\n| **Fruit / Floral Notes** | Pronounced: fruit base (grape etc.), plus any added citrus/fruits enhance that. Floral hints possible. | Less fruit-character from the base, more subtle (dried fruit or apple/pear if oak adds carryover), not dominant. |\n| **Oak / Vanilla / Caramel** | Present, especially in older brandies, but generally softer and less \"toasty\" than bourbon oak char. | Stronger. Bourbon often delivers big vanilla and caramel, with oak giving toasted or smoky character. |\n| **Spice / Heat** | Usually milder. More focused on smooth and rounded edges unless it's a younger brandy. Maybe hints of spice from wood. | More likely to show baking spice, rye heat (if rye-heavy mash), stronger finish. |\n| **Finish & Mouthfeel** | Softer, sometimes fruit lingers, less burn. | Rich, warm, fuller-bodied, more heat/residual bite. |\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udca1 What Changes Depending on Variables\n\nThe line between them shifts based on:\n\n- **Age**: Older brandy = deeper oak and possible fuller feel; a young bourbon might be lighter and fruitier.  \n- **Proof / strength**: Higher proof bourbon increases heat; brandy with high ABV can do the same, but often masked by fruit flavors.  \n- **Recipe tweaks**: Muddled fruit, sweeteners, sodas: Wisconsin-style brandy Old Fashioneds often have muddled orange + cherry + sugar + bitters + soda (sweet or sour etc.), which amplifies fruit & sweetness versus a bourbon version where the spirit starring role is more obvious.  \n\n---\n\nIf you like, I can give you a side-by-side guide you can use to taste them together and pick out what each brings \u2014 helps draw out what *you* prefer."
    }
]