Nadia George
July 20, 2024
The Whisky Sour is undeniably the simplest highlight at any bar. Yet complexity exists within its simplicity. Its charm shines in its perfect balance, and its evolution over time, thanks to imaginative bartenders, has made it unique. It seems simple, but don’t be deceived.
The Whisky Sour isn't the type to just lay low and be monotonous. Take the Eastern Sour, which swaps out the sugar for orgeat, a sweet syrup made from almonds and throws in a splash of orange juice.
Modern interpretations speak of the Whisky Sour's remarkable adaptability. Take Jeremy Oertel's Betty Carter, for instance. Here, the classic sour takes a luxurious turn, enriched by the addition of sherry.
The Whisky Sour changes with the seasons too. When autumn rolls around, whisky aficionados find themselves craving a Spiced Apple Whisky Sour.
In your shaker, combine 50 ml of whisky with 20 ml of your spiced apple syrup and 25 ml of lemon juice. Give it a good shake with ice, and there you have it—a cocktail that blends the warmth of spices with the sharpness of lemon.
Contemporary cocktail culture has taken the Whisky Sour and put a twist—or, should we say, twists—on it. As culinary techniques become more prevalent in cocktail crafting, the Whisky Sour has also seen gourmet versions emerge.