Whiskey Sour
Whiskey, lemon and sugar, optionally with egg white.
Drink details
Glass
Old Fashioned Glass
Ice
Cubed
Method
Shaken
Strength
Strong
Servings
1
Recipe
Ingredients
Bourbon
45 ml
Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed
25 ml
Simple Syrup
20 ml
Egg White
OptionalFew drops
3 drops
Garnish
Orange Slice
Half-slice
1 piece
Maraschino Cherry
1 piece
Rating
Rate this drink
Method
Preparation
- 1
Add the Bourbon, freshly squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup and, if using, the egg white to a shaker without ice.
- 2
Dry shake vigorously to combine and create a smooth foam if using egg white.
- 3
Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
- 4
Strain into the serving glass and garnish with an orange half-slice and a maraschino cherry.
About the Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic American sour built around whiskey, freshly squeezed lemon juice and simple syrup. Egg white can be added for a softer texture and foamy top, while aromatic bitters provide an optional layer of spice. The basic combination allows the richness and warmth of whiskey to contrast with bright lemon acidity and restrained sweetness. It is an approachable way to enjoy whiskey while still retaining the character of the base spirit.
What does a Whiskey Sour taste like?
A Whiskey Sour tastes citrusy, warming and balanced between tart and sweet. Whiskey contributes oak, spice and caramel-like depth, while lemon juice adds freshness and acidity. Simple syrup rounds off the sharper edges without making the cocktail dessert-like. When egg white is included, the texture becomes silkier and the flavors can seem softer and more integrated.
Tips for making a Whiskey Sour
Fresh lemon juice is essential to the clean acidity of a Whiskey Sour. If using egg white, shake the ingredients without ice first to help create foam, then shake again with ice for chilling and dilution. Without egg white, a standard vigorous shake is sufficient. Adjust the syrup slightly when necessary to account for differences in the acidity of fresh lemons.
