Watch the video below for the recipe.
A classic whiskey sour reminds me of my early days trying cocktails. It’s made with fresh lemon juice, bourbon, and sweet syrup. This mix creates a delightful drink that you’ll love sip by sip.
This cocktail can be enjoyed on ice or with a frothy egg white top. Making it at home shows off the quality of fresh ingredients. Nothing beats using fresh citrus over store-bought juice. Watch the video below to see how it’s done.
History of the Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic drink loved for its mix of spirit, citrus, and sugar. It came about in the mid-1800s and has stayed popular ever since. It’s interesting to note it was enjoyed during the time of Abraham Lincoln.
Dating back to the 1860s, we find the first recipe in a book by Jerry Thomas. This recipe used whiskey, lemon, sugar, and sometimes egg white for a smooth feel. Mixing it with a dry shake technique created a soft, silky drink, almost like a meringue.
This sour has deep ties to America’s drink making past. It started off simple, using what was easy to find. Now, we see drinks like the Boston Sour and New York Sour, adding new twists with red wine or different whiskey.
The egg white debate still goes on in cocktail circles. Back then, it was used for a rich texture and frothy top. Mixing it well, without ice first, and then again with ice, was the key to get it right.
Over time, the Whiskey Sour has changed, but for the better. It looks back to its roots while welcoming new flavors and ideas. This keeps it enjoyable and a go-to choice at bars.
Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe
The heart of a great homemade whiskey cocktail is the whiskey. A rich bourbon is my top pick for its sweet touch. It mixes well with the sourness of lemon juice and the sweetness of simple syrup. This mix makes a fine whiskey sour. For extra flair, I add an egg white to create a Boston Sour’s foam.
To get that creamy layer, start with a ‘dry shake’. This means no ice, just mix the egg white first. Then, do a ‘wet shake’ with ice to cool it down. This process makes the drink nice and frothy. I like to top it off with fresh ice, a lemon twist, and a Luxardo cherry. Good looks add to the taste and pleasure of this whiskey mix.
Fresh lemon juice is key to a balanced cocktail. Do try mixing it up. Like, use scotch instead of bourbon for a smoky flavor. Or, add red wine for something like the New York Sour. No matter the twist, the classic whiskey sour is always a hit.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in a classic whiskey sour cocktail?
A classic whiskey sour has bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. You can add egg white or bitters for fun twists.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice in my whiskey sour?
You sure can! Lime juice is a great swap. You can also mix them for a different taste.
Why is fresh lemon juice recommended over pre-packaged juices?
Fresh lemon juice is better than packaged. It’s brighter and makes the drink taste fresher.
What is the purpose of egg white in a whiskey sour?
Egg white makes the drink smoother and gives it a frothy top. This is called the Boston Sour.
How should I garnish a whiskey sour?
The classic garnish has an orange wheel and a cherry. Or, try a lemon peel with a Luxardo cherry for something special.
Can I customize the sweetness of my whiskey sour?
Yes, you can! Change the amount of simple syrup to what you like. Maple syrup is also a good alternative.
What type of glass should I use to serve a whiskey sour?
Serve it in a rocks glass with ice. It keeps your drink cool and looks good too.
What is the ‘dry shake’ technique?
The ‘dry shake’ mixes without ice. It’s great for egg white drinks. It makes them frothy like meringue.
How is the Boston Sour different from a regular whiskey sour?
Boston Sour is a whiskey sour with egg white. The egg white adds a creamy top. This makes the drink richer.
Are there any notable variations of the whiskey sour?
There are lots of ways to change it up. Use scotch for a smoky taste. The New York Sour has red wine on top.
Source Links
- https://www.liquor.com/recipes/whiskey-sour/
- https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/whiskey-sour
- https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/whiskey-sour-recipe/
Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.