Whiskey Sour

Whiskey Sour

History & Appreciation:

The Whiskey Sour is one of the most classic cocktails, standing the test of time for over a century. Its first recorded appearance in a cocktail book dates back to 1862 when Jerry Thomas included it in The Bartender’s Guide. However, the origins of this beloved drink stretch even further back—likely to the 18th century when sailors mixed alcohol with citrus to prevent scurvy during long voyages. Fresh lemon or lime juice was an essential part of their rations, and what better way to enjoy it than by pairing it with their favorite spirits? Once these sailors and early American settlers arrived on land, they carried the tradition with them, and over time, the Whiskey Sour became a staple in bars and homes alike.

Today, the Whiskey Sour remains a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts for its perfect balance of sweet, tart, and boozy notes. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey drinker or new to the game, this cocktail is easy to make and endlessly enjoyable.

What You’ll Need:

The Whiskey Sour is a simple yet elegant drink that doesn’t require too many ingredients, but a cocktail shaker is highly recommended. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bourbon (We prefer bourbon for its smooth, caramel notes, but you can experiment with rye for a spicier kick.)

• Fresh Lemon Juice (Always opt for fresh lemons over bottled juice—it makes all the difference.)

• Simple Syrup (A 1:1 mix of sugar and water, or you can use honey or maple syrup for a twist.)

• Egg White (Optional but highly recommended!) (It adds a velvety texture and a frothy top.)

• Ice

How to Make a Whiskey Sour:

Now that you have everything ready, let’s mix up a proper Whiskey Sour!

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Measure out the following:

• 2 oz Bourbon

• 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

• 3/4 oz Simple Syrup

• 1/2 Egg White (if using)

Step 2: Dry Shake (Without Ice)

Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker and shake without ice for about 15 seconds. This allows the egg white to emulsify, creating a smooth, frothy texture.

Step 3: Shake Again with Ice

Now, add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 15 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.

Step 4: Strain and Serve

Strain the cocktail into a coupe glass or a whiskey glass. Avoid pouring the ice into your drink to prevent dilution.

Step 5: Garnish & Enjoy

Garnish with an orange peel, a cherry, or even a dash of bitters on top of the foam for extra flair. Now, sit back, take a sip, and savor the perfectly balanced flavors.

Whiskey Sour Variations:

Want to experiment with your Whiskey Sour? Try these fun twists:

• New York Sour – Add a float of red wine on top for a rich, layered effect.

• Maple Whiskey Sour – Swap out the simple syrup for maple syrup for a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor.

• Spiced Whiskey Sour – Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced twist.

THERE YOU HAVE IT! You have just made a beautiful cocktail (we won’t judge if you put it on the gram). For quality cocktail ingredients and at home delivery, go to ShopSK.