The Basics
Traditionally, a Whisky Sour includes a combination of whisky, lemon juice, and simple syrup. The proportions should be 2 parts Whisky, 3/4 part lemon juice, and 3/4 part simple syrup (you can adjust this to your personal preference). Simple syrup is just a combination of equal parts water and sugar, heated and dissolved together.
Glassware
The perfect glass for a Whisky Sour is a tumbler or a rocks glass. The glass should be filled with ice before the cocktail is poured in. Chill the glass beforehand in the freezer for a few minutes to keep the drink cool in warm weather.
Whisky Selection
One of the most important decisions in making a good cocktail is selecting the right type of whisky. While you might be tempted to just grab any old bottle of whisky that’s sitting on your bar shelf, it’s important to choose a good quality one. A good idea is to choose a whisky that has both a smoky and sweet flavour profile, such as a bourbon or a rye whisky. This will give your Whisky Sour a depth of flavour that can’t be beat.
Mixing the Drink
First, pour the whisky, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a shaker with ice. The shaker should be filled with ice halfway. Shake vigorously until the contents are well mixed and the shaker becomes cold to the touch. Strain the contents of the shaker into your tumbler or rocks glass, which should already be filled with ice.
To add a little extra wow factor to your Whisky Sour, garnish it with a slice of lemon and a maraschino cherry. Drop both the lemon and cherry into the glass for a delicious burst of flavour.
Variations
One of the best things about the Whisky Sour is that it’s a versatile cocktail that can be customized to your preference. Consider adding a few drops of bitters to give it a unique flavour. You could also opt to muddle fresh fruit such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries into the mixture for a fruity twist.
Another fun variation is to add an egg white to your Whisky Sour. This will give the cocktail a frothy, smooth texture and a beautifully creamy head. Whisk the egg white in a separate container and then add it to your cocktail shaker along with the other ingredients before shaking it up.
Conclusion
A Whisky Sour is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s a delicious drink that’s easy to make and customizable to your taste preferences. With just a few key ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a refreshing and impressive cocktail that your friends and family will love. So the next time you’re looking for a great cocktail to make at home, give the Whisky Sour a try!