Whisky Sour
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Whisky Sour
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.51 / 5
The Whisky Sour is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century, with a history that dates back to the 1800s. It is revered for its balanced combination of tangy and sweet flavors, achieved by mixing lemon juice and sugar syrup with the rich, smooth notes of bourbon whiskey. Traditionally, the inclusion of egg white adds a velvety texture and a frothy top when shaken, making it both a delight to the palate and the eye. The cocktail is typically served in a whiskey glass, offering a refreshing experience with a sophisticated edge. With its vibrant citrus notes contrasting the depth of the bourbon, the Whisky Sour remains a popular choice for those who appreciate a well-rounded and time-honored drink.
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Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
15 key ingredients
Cocktail Of The Day
Invented
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1870
Base ingredient
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Bourbon
Calories
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140 calories
Garnish
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Orange, cocktail cherry
Alcohol content
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16.36% | 1.8 units *
Details
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Classic
Shaken

Tags

Bourbon ingredient icon
Bourbon cocktails

Whisky glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Lemon Juice cocktail ingredient icon for the Whisky Sour cocktail
Lemon Juice
Sugar Syrup cocktail ingredient icon for the Whisky Sour cocktail
Sugar Syrup
Bourbon cocktail ingredient icon for the Whisky Sour cocktail
Bourbon
Egg cocktail ingredient icon for the Whisky Sour cocktail
Egg
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Whisky Sour cunningly balances the zest of lemon juice with the sweetness of sugar syrup, complemented by the robust depth of bourbon. This classic cocktail is elevated with the silky addition of egg white, creating a smooth, frothy texture that beautifully contrasts its sharp, refreshing undertones.

Method
How to make a Whisky Sour

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice
Shake well then strain into a chilled old fashioned glass
Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry and serve
~ Makers Mark Bourbon is recommended, but any good quality bourbon will do, each giving their own qualities to the finished drink. ~

Power tips
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Perform a 'dry shake' first—shake all the ingredients without ice to emulsify the egg white—before doing a second shake with ice. This creates a smoother, frothier texture.
Use a rich simple syrup (2:1 sugar to water ratio) for a more pronounced sweetness that balances the tart lemon juice and robust bourbon.
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The Definitive Guide to Mastering the Iconic Whiskey Sour Cocktail

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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  ·  Strain  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

Faq icon

What is the historical background of the Whisky Sour?

The Whisky Sour is a classic cocktail with a rich history dating back to the 1870s. Its origins are often traced to the practice of adding lime juice to spirits at sea to prevent scurvy among sailors. The drink evolved over time, with its early documented recipe appearing in Jerry Thomas' 1862 bartending guide, 'How to Mix Drinks.' The Whisky Sour combines the tanginess of lemon, the sweetness of sugar, and the complexity of whisky, making it a beloved choice for cocktail enthusiasts.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I make a Whisky Sour without egg white, and how does it affect the drink?

Yes, it's possible to make a Whisky Sour without egg white. The egg white is primarily used to add a smooth, frothy texture to the cocktail, giving it a richer mouthfeel. Without the egg white, the drink will still have its characteristic sour and sweet flavors but lack the silky texture. For those concerned about using raw egg, alternatives like aquafaba (chickpea brine) can create a similar texture.

Ingredient specifics icon

What type of bourbon is best for a Whisky Sour?

For a Whisky Sour, it's generally recommended to use a high-quality bourbon with a balanced flavor profile that includes notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. A bourbon that's too spicy or too sweet can overpower the delicate balance of the cocktail. Bourbons with a moderate proof (around 80 to 100) are ideal, as they provide enough body and complexity without being overwhelming. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role, and experimenting with different bourbons can help you find your perfect match.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content of a Whisky Sour compare to other cocktails?

The Whisky Sour has an alcohol content of approximately 16.36%, placing it in the mid-range category of cocktail strength. It is stronger than light cocktails like the Mimosa or Pimm’s Cup, which often fall below 10% alcohol by volume, but it is less potent than high-alcohol content cocktails like the Martini or Manhattan, which can exceed 30% alcohol by volume. This moderate alcohol content makes the Whisky Sour a balanced choice, suitable for sipping over a period without being overwhelmingly strong.

Faq icon

Is the Whisky Sour suitable for all seasons, and how can it be adapted?

Yes, the Whisky Sour is a versatile cocktail suitable for all seasons. Its refreshing sourness makes it ideal for summer, while the warmth of the bourbon is comforting in winter. To adapt the cocktail for warmer months, you can add seasonal fruits like berries or peach slices for a fruity twist. For colder months, introducing spices such as cinnamon or incorporating a splash of apple cider can add a cozy warmth to the drink, making it even more enjoyable.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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