Whiskey Sour
A smooth, balanced whiskey cocktail combining bourbon, fresh lemon and cane sugar syrup. Rich, citrusy and silky, with optional foam adding a soft, elegant finish.
Whiskey Sour Recipe
- Bourbon wishkey 50 ml
- Lemon juice 25 ml
- Cane sugar syrup 20 ml
- Cocktail foamer 4 drops
- Fresh lemon 1 twist
- Ice 150 g, optional
MAKE IT PROPERLY
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, cane sugar syrup and Fee Foam, if using, to a shaker.
- Add plenty of ice and shake hard for 15–20 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a fresh lemon twist.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD WHISKEY SOUR?
A good Whiskey Sour is smooth, bright and well balanced. Whiskey provides richness and depth, lemon brings fresh acidity and sugar syrup adds just enough sweetness to soften the citrus. A cocktail foamer can add a silky texture and a creamy foam on top.
Shaking hard with plenty of ice is essential to properly chill, dilute and aerate the drink. The result should be refreshing and silky, while still allowing the character of the whiskey to remain clearly present.
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WHISKEY SOUR: RECIPE, INGREDIENTS & TIPS
A practical guide to making a classic Whiskey Sour, from choosing the right whiskey to balancing fresh lemon, sweetness and a smooth, silky texture.
THE STORY OF THE WHISKEY SOUR
The Whiskey Sour belongs to the classic sour family of cocktails, built around a simple combination of spirit, citrus and sugar. Versions of the drink appeared in the 19th century, and the Whiskey Sour became one of the best-known expressions of this straightforward formula.
Its lasting appeal comes from balance. Whiskey provides richness and character, lemon contributes bright acidity and sugar softens the citrus without hiding the flavour of the spirit.
THE BEST INGREDIENTS FOR A WHISKEY SOUR
A good Whiskey Sour starts with a bourbon that has enough character to remain present alongside lemon and sugar. Fresh, bright lemon and a clean cane sugar syrup create the sweet-and-sour balance that defines the cocktail.
For Drinkero's version, we recommend Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon, Lemon Juice and MONIN Pure Cane Sugar Syrup. Fee Brothers Fee Foam can be added optionally for a smoother texture and pronounced foam.
HOW TO MAKE A SMOOTH, BALANCED WHISKEY SOUR
Add the bourbon, lemon juice, cane sugar syrup and optional Fee Foam to a shaker. Add plenty of ice and shake hard for 15–20 seconds until thoroughly chilled and aerated.
Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice and finish with a lemon peel. A strong shake provides proper dilution while helping create the smooth texture associated with a well-made Whiskey Sour.
Questions about the Whiskey Sour
What whiskey is best for a Whiskey Sour?
Bourbon works particularly well because its rich vanilla, caramel and oak character balances the acidity of lemon. For Drinkero's recipe, we recommend Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon.
How sour should a Whiskey Sour be?
It should have noticeable fresh acidity without becoming sharp. A ratio of 50 ml bourbon, 25 ml lemon juice and 20 ml cane sugar syrup gives a balanced starting point.
Does a Whiskey Sour need egg white?
No. Egg white is traditional in some versions but isn't essential. Drinkero uses Fee Brothers Fee Foam as an optional way to add foam and a smoother texture without egg white.
Do you need to dry shake a Whiskey Sour?
Not when using Fee Foam. A hard shake with ice for around 15–20 seconds provides good aeration, chilling and dilution.
Should a Whiskey Sour be served with ice?
It can be served either up or over ice. Drinkero's version is served in a rocks glass over fresh ice.
Can I make Whiskey Sours for a group?
Yes. Choose 6, 12, 24 or 48 cocktails in the Drinkero builder and it calculates the bourbon, lemon juice, syrup and other components you need.