What defines a sour cocktail?

Sour cocktails are a family of drinks featuring a base spirit (like vodka, gin, whiskey, or even tequila), citrus juice (usually lemon or lime), and a sweetener (simple syrup or liqueur). The balance between these elements creates a refreshingly tart and tangy flavor profile.

What are some classic sour cocktails?

Vodka Sour: The quintessential sour, featuring vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and optionally, egg white for a frothy texture. Whiskey Sour: This bourbon-based sour offers a deeper, richer flavor profile compared to the vodka sour. Daiquiri: A Cuban classic made with rum, lime juice, and simple syrup, known for its refreshing simplicity. Margarita: The Margarita is a sour cocktail (liquor + citrus + sweetener) with the addition of triple sec or Cointreau, an orange-flavored liqueur.

Can I use different citrus juices?

Yes! While lemon and lime are the most common, you can experiment with grapefruit, orange, or even yuzu juice for a unique twist.

What are some alternatives to simple syrup?

We like using pure maple syrup as an alternative sweetener for sour cocktails. Honey syrup works as well.

Do I need egg white in all sour cocktails?

Egg white is a classic addition to some sour cocktails like the Pisco Sour , creating a frothy texture and a smoother taste. It's optional, and some variations (like the Whiskey Sour ) can be made without it.

20 Best Sour Cocktails to Try

Name: Classic Whiskey Sour
Prep time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Cuisine: Cocktails
Ingredients: 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) bourbon whiskey*; 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) fresh lemon juice; 3/4 ounce (1 1/2 tablespoons) pure maple syrup (or simple syrup); Garnish: Orange peel and a cocktail cherry; Ice, for serving; Variation: Add an egg white for a Boston Sour

Description

The most famous of sour cocktails: the whiskey sour! It’s perfectly balanced with bourbon, lemon and sweetener. Garnish with an orange peel and a cocktail cherry.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ounces (4 tablespoons) bourbon whiskey*
1 ounce (2 tablespoons) fresh lemon juice
3/4 ounce (1 1/2 tablespoons) pure maple syrup (or simple syrup)
Garnish: Orange peel and a cocktail cherry
Ice, for serving
Variation: Add an egg white for a Boston Sour

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Instructions

Add the bourbon whiskey, lemon juice, and syrup to a cocktail shaker. Fill with a handful of ice and shake until very cold.
Strain the drink into a lowball or Old Fashioned glass. Serve with ice, an orange peel and a cocktail cherry.

Notes

*You can use any variety of whiskey, but we prefer it with the sweeter flavor of bourbon.

Category: Drink
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: Cocktails
Diet: Vegan