Looking for a new cocktail to try out this weekend? Want to wind down with a fresh new drink? We’ve got you covered. Here’s what you should drink this weekend.
With February coming to a close, spring is just around the corner. And I’m eager for some warmer weather and the drinks that come with it. Simplicity is key here – I’m not aiming for any extravagant fruit-forward summery drinks. But, a complex drink with some bright citrus would be a welcome reprieve during the tail end of winter.
So, this weekend, I’m turning to the vibrant and deceptively simple Whiskey Sour. Unfairly, I’ve seen the Whiskey Sour not taken seriously as a true “classic.” Still, the frothy, slightly nuanced beverage offers endless potential with talented bartenders whipping up riff after riff of this stellar drink.
Whiskey Sour Ingredients
Bourbon – Whiskey is the only spirit in this drink. The specifics are up to the drinker but many would call for bourbon these days. For a rich spice character, turn to a rye and for a smoother experience, Irish whiskey can be called upon. Overall, I’d recommend against reaching for a top-shelf bourbon. The citrus and sweetness will likely overpower any truly nuanced components of your bourbon. Seek out Four Roses, Rittenhouse Rye, or Jameson.
Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key here. Avoid anything storebought. Get yourself a decent juicer and enjoy some high-quality lemon juice. You can also juice some lemons ahead of time and store your sealed lemon juice in the fridge.
Simple Syrup – If you enjoy making cocktails at home, keep some homemade simple syrup on hand. Keep it stored in an airtight container for up to a month.
Egg Whites – Egg whites are considered to be optional in this drink. But, if you want a delicious, froth, silky smooth Whiskey Sour, you’ll want to use some eggwhites. Crack open an egg while you’re making this or keep some egg whites in a container in the fridge.
Luxardo Cherry/Orange Peel – You can get creative with the garnishes on your whiskey sour or you can stick to the tried and true option of an orange peel and a cocktail cherry. I’ll be using some amaro-soaked cherries from St. Agrestis but Luxardo cherries are a great option. Alternatively, you could garnish the frothy Whiskey Sour with a few dashes of Angostura bitters, a mint leaf, or even a small lemon twist.
Whiskey Sour Recipe
Combine 2 ounces of bourbon, 3/4 ounce of lemon juice, 1/2 ounce of simple syrup, and 1/2 ounce of egg whites in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake vigorously for at least 30 seconds. Strain into a coupe glass or, in a pinch, a rocks glass. Garnish with your orange peel and cocktail cherry.
