Classic Whiskey Sour Recipe

By Flavor My Taste Staff

Updated January 31, 2024

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Classic Whiskey Sour Recipe
The whiskey sour is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Dating back to the late 1800s, this mixed drink combines the bite of whiskey with the zesty tang of citrus and the subtle sweetness of sugar to create a well-rounded flavor profile. Traditionally garnished with a slice of orange or a cherry, the whiskey sour is as versatile as it is delicious, allowing for variations and personalization. Whether it's a casual evening with friends or a special celebration, the whiskey sour is a staple that promises to delight with its smooth, tart taste and rich history.
  Classic Whiskey Sour Recipe

Whiskey Sour: A Cocktail Through the Ages

The Whiskey Sour is a cocktail that has gracefully aged, surviving over a century as a beloved mixture in bars worldwide. Its origin dates back to the late 1800s and has since been a testament to the art of cocktail blending. As much as it is about the robust flavor, it's also a story of cultural shifts and the evolution of drinking habits.
This timeless cocktail unites the strong character of whiskey with the brightness of lemon juice and the subtle touch of sugar, providing a sip that is both balanced and bold. Whether served at a cozy home gathering or as the centerpiece of a grand celebration, the whiskey sour continues to captivate palates with its smooth, tart taste and layers of complexity.

What Makes the Perfect Whiskey Sour?

Finding the ideal balance in a Whiskey Sour is akin to a quest for the holy grail for cocktail enthusiasts. It's the harmonic convergence of whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup that gives this drink its legendary status. But how does one achieve this perfection?
Start with the classic ratio featured in our recipe: 2.0 oz whiskey, 0.75 oz lemon juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup. The key is in the quality of ingredients—using freshly squeezed lemon juice and a good-quality whiskey can make all the difference. Not to forget, for those daring enough, the addition of an egg white introduces a silky texture that truly elevates the experience.

Customizing Your Whiskey Sour

While the traditional Whiskey Sour recipe is revered by many, there's always room for a personal touch. For instance, swapping the simple syrup for maple syrup can offer a more autumnal flavor, whereas adding a splash of red wine creates the popular variation known as a New York Sour.
On the other hand, for a non-alcoholic version, you could opt for a whiskey-flavored syrup. Vegans and those averse to using egg white can substitute with aquafaba to still achieve that desirable frothy layer. Each modification not only alters the taste but also adds a personal narrative to the drink.

Tips for a Flawless Whiskey Sour

While this cocktail may seem straightforward, a few expert tips can enhance your Whiskey Sour experience. First, chilling your rocks glass is non-negotiable—it keeps the drink cool and refreshing longer. A vigorous dry shake—that is, shaking the ingredients without ice first—is crucial, particularly if you're including egg white, as it emulsifies the mixture and adds that desirable frothiness.
Next, to achieve a seamless blend of flavors and temperature, a second shake with ice is essential before straining into your chilled glass. Lastly, the classic garnish of an orange slice or a cherry not only adds aesthetic appeal but can also provide an extra hint of fruitiness with every sip, bringing the drink to its full-circle moment of enjoyment.

Mixing the Whiskey Sour at Home

Mixing a Classic Whiskey Sour at home could be the showstopper of your next home party or the perfect companion for a quiet evening. With a prep time of only about 5 minutes, it's a quick, yet impressive way to indulge in some cocktail craftsmanship. Plus, personalizing your Whiskey Sour means you can adjust the sweetness, tartness, and strength to suit your taste perfectly.
Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a curious novice, our recipe provides a straightforward guide to achieve the perfect blend. Remember, practice makes perfect, and experimenting with different whiskies and ratios can help you discover your signature Whiskey Sour style.

Classic Whiskey Sour Recipe

Prep time: 5 minutes | Total time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

Makes 1 Cocktail
  • 2 oz whiskey
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • 1 egg white (optional for frothiness)
  • 1 dash Angostura Bitters

Instructions

  • 1 Chill a rocks glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water.
  • 2 In a shaker, combine the whiskey, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using).
  • 3 Seal the shaker and dry shake (without ice) vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
  • 4 Add ice to the shaker and shake again for about 30 seconds to chill the mixture.
  • 5 Discard the ice from the rocks glass if used to chill.
  • 6 Strain the cocktail into the chilled rocks glass over fresh ice.
  • 7 Top with a dash of Angostura bitters, and garnish with an orange slice or a cherry.

Notes

If you are vegan or prefer not to use egg whites, you can substitute it with aquafaba (chickpea liquid) for a similar foamy texture.