Whiskey Sour – Cocktail of the Month

The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s a simple yet delicious drink that can be made with just a few ingredients. Let’s explore the history and share a recipe that you can use to make your own at home.

History of the Whiskey Sour

The origins of the Whiskey Sour are somewhat unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the 1700s. Back then, sailors were given rations of citrus juice to prevent scurvy. They would mix this juice with sugar and spirits to make a simple and refreshing drink. This drink became known as the “sour” and was made with a variety of spirits, including whiskey.

The cocktail as we know it today didn’t become popular until the mid-1800s. At this time, bartenders in America were experimenting with different combinations of spirits, sugar, and citrus. One of the most famous early recipes for the Whiskey Sour was published in Jerry Thomas’s 1862 book, “The Bon Vivant’s Companion.” This recipe called for whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar, shaken with ice and strained into a glass.

Over the years, it has remained a popular cocktail, and it’s been adapted in countless ways. Some people add egg white for a frothy texture, while others use different types of whiskey or add bitters for extra flavor.

Whiskey Sour Recipe

Now that you know a bit about the history of the Whiskey Sour, it’s time to make one for yourself. Here’s a simple recipe that you can use:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. whiskey
• ¾ oz. fresh lemon juice
• ¾ oz. simple syrup
• Ice
• Lemon slice, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice.

There are a few things to note about this recipe. First, it calls for fresh lemon juice rather than bottled lemon juice. This is important because fresh juice has a brighter, more vibrant flavor that will make your cocktail taste better. Second, the simple syrup is an essential ingredient that you can easily make at home. To make simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan and heat until the sugar dissolves. Let the syrup cool before using it in your cocktail.

Variations on a Classic Cocktail

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are countless ways to customize the Whiskey Sour to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:

• Use different types of whiskey: Bourbon is the most traditional whiskey to use in a Whiskey Sour, but you can experiment with other varieties as well. Rye whiskey, for example, will give your cocktail a spicier flavor.
• Add egg white: If you want to give your Whiskey Sour a frothy texture, try adding egg white. Simply separate an egg, add the white to your cocktail shaker, and shake vigorously before adding the other ingredients.
• Use flavored syrups: Instead of plain simple syrup, you can use flavored syrups to add extra flavor to your cocktail. Try making a lavender or honey syrup for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Add bitters: If you like your cocktails on the bitter side, try adding a few dashes of bitters to your Whiskey Sour. Angostura bitters are a popular choice