How to Make the Classic Whiskey Sour Cocktail

Learn how to make the classic Whiskey Sour cocktail! This timeless drink blends smooth whiskey with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a touch of sweetness. Whether you prefer straight bourbon, rye whiskey, or scotch whisky, this sour mix creates the perfect balance of flavors.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Let’s dive into a drink that’s as woven into American cocktail history as the repeal of Prohibition itself – the Whiskey Sour. This isn’t just any whiskey cocktail; it’s a classic concoction that perfectly blends the tang of fresh citrus juice with the smooth, rich flavors of great whiskey. Ready to shake things up? Grab your cocktail shaker, and let’s mix up a little bit of magic.

The Basics of the Sour Cocktail

Let’s start with the basics of the sour cocktail. These drinks are all about balance – combining a spirit, citrus juice, and a sweet ingredient to create a harmonious blend. The Whiskey Sour is the poster child for this category. It’s a classic cocktail that’s simple yet sophisticated, delivering a charming mix of flavors with every sip. Whether you're a fan of Old Fashioneds or new to whiskey cocktails, this drink is sure to become one of your favorite drinks.

Choosing the Best Whiskey

The best whiskey for your sour recipe depends on your personal taste. Some folks swear by straight bourbon whiskey for its rich, caramel notes, while others prefer the spiciness of rye whiskey. Scotch whisky can also make a fine sour, adding a smoky depth to the drink. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s a whiskey you enjoy on its own, as its flavor will shine through in the cocktail. For today’s drink, I reached for Maker's Mark – it's what I had on hand and it’s a personal favorite. I love its smoothness; it’s never harsh or bitter, just easy going down.

Variations to Try

The classic whiskey sour is a great way to enjoy your favorite whiskey, but there are several variations worth exploring:

• New York Sour: After making your whiskey sour, float a little red wine on top for a beautiful layered effect and a burst of additional flavor.
• Pisco Sour: Swap out the whiskey for pisco, a South American brandy, and add an egg white for a creamy texture and a luscious foamy top.
• Scotch Sour: Use a smoky scotch whisky for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Brown Derby: This version of a whiskey sour includes grapefruit juice and a touch of honey, offering a delightful citrus twist.

A Journey Through Time

The Whiskey Sour’s history is as rich as its flavor. In the 18th century, sailors mixed spirits with citrus juice to combat scurvy, laying the groundwork for the Whiskey Sour. By the mid-19th century, this mix evolved into the cocktail we cherish today. The first official mention was in a Wisconsin newspaper in 1870, but its popularity had already taken hold. Jerry Thomas, the father of American mixology, included it in his 1862 Bartender’s Guide, securing its place in cocktail history.

Prohibition threw a wrench in the works, but the Whiskey Sour emerged from the era more popular than ever. Today, it’s a cocktail menu staple, adored for its balance and versatility. Whether enjoyed in its classic form or with a modern twist, the Whiskey Sour is a delicious sip of history.

The Best Part

The best part about making a whiskey sour? It’s a simple cocktail that never fails to impress. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or just getting started, it's a drink that's easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Perfect for the warm summer months or any time you’re in the mood for a refreshing whiskey cocktail, the whiskey sour is a true crowd-pleaser.

So, here’s to the Whiskey Sour – a timeless drink. Cheers!

Visit my Amazon Store for everything you need to cook up a storm, bake delicious treats, and whip up your favorite beverages!

Mixing Up the Magic

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this classic drink. Here’s how to make the best whiskey sour, step by step:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by juicing a fresh lemon. Freshly-squeezed lemon juice is key to a great whiskey sour. Measure out ¾ ounce of the juice and set it aside.
2. Simple Syrup: If you don’t have plain simple syrup on hand, it’s easy to make. Just dissolve equal parts white sugar and water in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it cool before using.
3. Combine Ingredients: In your cocktail shaker, combine 2 ounces of your chosen whiskey, ¾ ounce freshly-squeezed lemon juice, and ¾ ounce plain simple syrup.
4. Shake It Up: Add fresh ice to the shaker, cover, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also helps create that signature foamy top, especially if you're using egg white (more on that in a bit).
5. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a cocktail cherry for a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

A Whiskey Sour pairs perfectly with almost anything, but here are a few snack ideas to enjoy while you're sipping:

• Spicy Pretzels: this savory, salty snack is perfect with cocktails!
• Blue Cheese Kettle Chips: you'll have a hard time stopping with this snack but it's oh so good! If you're not a fan of blue cheese, try it with crumbled feta!
• Marinated Cheese: serve this beautiful, savory snack with an assortment of crackers. The garlicky marinade and savory cheeses are perfect for noshing alongside your favorite cocktail.
• Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms: this warm appetizer will have your guests coming back for more, so make plenty!

Can you make a large batch of Whiskey Sours?

• Yes! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of drinks you want to make and combine in a large pitcher. Make sure you have a long bar spoon to stir the pitcher before serving. Serve with desired garnishes and plenty of ice

More Classic Cocktail Recipes

• Classic Moscow Mule
• Lemon Drop Martini
• Classic Godfather Cocktail
• French Martini