LIQUORMASTERY

WHISKEY SOUR COCKTAIL RECIPE

Created on July 22, 2023
Table of Contents
  1. Ingredients
  2. Method
  3. Tips For Making A Whiskey Sour
  4. What Does A Whiskey Sour Taste Like?
  5. What's A Whiskey Sour Made Of?
  6. History Of The Whiskey Sour

The Whiskey Sour's timeless combination of tart, sweet, and strong makes it a beloved choice worldwide. With roots dating back to the 19th century, it's a testament to the power of simplicity. It's a perfect symphony of bourbon, lemon, and sugar, elevated by a touch of egg white for a frothy finish.

frothy whiskey sour with orange slice and cherry garnish in a rocks glass

Ingredients

  • 2 Ounces Bourbon
  • ¾ Ounce Lemon Juice
  • ½ Ounce Simple Syrup
  • 1 Egg White (optional)
  • 1 Orange Slice (garnish)
  • 1 Cherry (garnish)

Method

  1. Fill a shaker with ice.
  2. Add the Bourbon, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, and (if using) the Egg White.
  3. Shake vigorously until well-chilled (about 15 seconds).
  4. Strain into a Delmonico glass.
  5. Garnish with your Orange Slice and Cherry.
  6. Enjoy!

Tips For Making A Whiskey Sour

  • Using fresh lemon juice makes a world of difference.

  • Shaking longer helps better emulsify the egg white, making it extra foamy.

  • Another way to make your drink even foamier is to do a dry shake first (without ice), then shaking again with ice to chill the cocktail.

  • Experiment with rye whiskey for a spicier note.

  • A dash of bitters can add an extra layer of complexity, and works well as a garnish on top of the foam.

What Does A Whiskey Sour Taste Like?

The whiskey sour is a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and spirituous flavors. The bourbon brings warm, vanilla notes, the lemon juice imparts a fresh tartness, and the simple syrup rounds it out with a clean sweetness. The optional egg white adds a creamy, frothy texture.

What's A Whiskey Sour Made Of?

A whiskey sour is a tantalizing mix of bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. Bourbon provides the robust base, lemon juice brings a vibrant tang, and simple syrup offers a balancing sweetness.

Best Bourbon For A Whiskey Sour

The ideal bourbon for a whiskey sour is one with a robust flavor to stand up against the lemon and sugar. Bulleit Bourbon, with its high rye content and robust character, imparts spicy, oaky notes that complement the cocktail's sweetness and acidity.

History Of The Whiskey Sour

The whiskey sour traces its origins back to the mid-19th century. A classic fixture of the American bar scene, it's said to have been a sailor's drink, designed to make the harsh spirits aboard ships more palatable and prevent scurvy.

In pop culture, it's been the drink of choice for icons from Hollywood stars to literary giants. Its timeless appeal endures, making it as popular in contemporary cocktail bars as it was in the saloons of old.