The Best Whiskey Sour Recipes for Flawless Sipping

Whiskey sours are a delicious and classic choice for any cocktail enthusiast. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a simple version or want to add some complexity with eggy or fruity flavors, there's a recipe in this guide that suits your preferences.

Method 1: Simple Whiskey Sour

For a classic and straightforward whiskey sour, simple ingredients and a good cocktail shaker are all you need. Mix and shake until it's perfectly blended, then strain and garnish to perfection.

Ingredients:

1.5 oz (45 ml) whiskey (Rye or Bourbon) 1 oz (30 ml) lemon juice 1 tsp (5g) powdered sugar A handful of ice

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake for at least 10 seconds to blend the ingredients fully. Strain into a rocks glass or old-fashioned glass, depending on your preference. Add ice if desired. Garnish with a lemon twist or a slice of lemon. For a sweeter option, use a maraschino cherry.

If you find the sourness overpowering, simply adjust the amount of sugar or lemon juice in future batches.

Method 2: Egg White Whiskey Sour

Incorporating an egg white can make your whiskey sour smoother and richer. This method requires a slight variation in preparation to achieve the best results.

Ingredients:

1.5 oz (45 ml) whiskey 0.75 oz (22 ml) lemon juice 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup 1 splash of orange liqueur 1 egg white A handful of ice

Instructions:

Shake all ingredients except for the ice. Dry shaking helps blend the ingredients well. Add ice and shake again for about 30 seconds to ensure the egg white is fully incorporated. Strain into a rocks glass or a short-stemmed sour glass, garnish with an orange twist, and serve immediately.

The egg white creates a smooth and frothy texture, perfect for a more indulgent drinking experience. However, ensure food safety by checking if there are any concerns regarding raw egg consumption.

Method 3: Double Standard Sour

This unique recipe combines gin and whiskey for a more complex flavor profile. Perfect for those looking for a twist on the classic.

Ingredients:

0.75 oz (22 ml) whiskey 0.75 oz (22 ml) gin 0.75 oz (22 ml) lemon juice 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup 1 dash of grenadine

Instructions:

Shake all ingredients for at least 10 seconds to blend. Strain into a sour glass or an old fashioned glass with ice. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice, then enjoy immediately.

The addition of gin and grenadine creates a more complex and layered drink that is not only tasty but visually appealing as well.

Method 4: New York Sour

This recipe adds a unique element by floating dry red wine over the base drink. A perfect choice if you're looking for a taste that combines whiskey, citrus, and a touch of wine.

Ingredients:

2 oz (Rye Whiskey) 0.75 oz (22 ml) lemon juice 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup A handful of ice 0.5 oz (15 ml) dry red wine (Syrah/Malbec/Merlot)

Instructions:

Shake all ingredients except the ice in a cocktail shaker. Strain into a sour glass or a wineglass. Pour the dry red wine over the back of a large spoon, ensuring it floats on top of the drink. Garnish with a lemon slice and enjoy immediately.

This drink is best enjoyed quickly to avoid the wine blending with the base, resulting in a cohesive flavor experience.

Method 5: Dizzy Sour

For a cocktail with a bit of a tropical twist, try the Dizzy Sour. This recipe complements the flavor of rum with the complexity of Bénédictine and the refreshing zing of lemon.

Ingredients:

1.5 oz whiskey 0.5 oz lemon juice 2 tsp Bénédictine 0.25 oz simple syrup 1 egg white 0.5 oz dark rum

Instructions:

Shake all ingredients except the rum and garnish in a cocktail shaker. Keep shaking for about 15 seconds, then add ice and shake for another 30 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass or a cocktail glass. Float the rum over the back of a spoon, ensuring it stays separate from the mixed drink. Garnish with a pineapple skewer and enjoy immediately.

Using Bénédictine instead of Chartreuse or Drambuie can add a unique layer of complexity to the drink. Adjust the rum amount if you prefer a stronger barbeque flavor.

Conclusion

Whiskey sours offer a versatile and delicious choice for any cocktail hour. Whether you prefer a simple classic, a rich and smooth version, a complex gin and whiskey mix, a wine-infused cocktail, or a tropical twist, there is a recipe here that fits your palate. Experiment with different flavors and styles to find your perfect whiskey sour.