How To Make a Whiskey Sour

Why the Whiskey Sour Is a Classic

The Whiskey Sour is one of the most enduring cocktails in history. Dating back to the mid-1800s, it’s a simple yet sophisticated drink that balances sweet, sour, and strong flavors perfectly. Made with whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar (often enriched with egg white for texture), the Whiskey Sour is a go-to cocktail for beginners and connoisseurs alike. In this 2025 guide, we’ll break down how to make the perfect Whiskey Sour, explore variations, share expert tips, and even suggest food pairings.

Essential Ingredients for a Whiskey Sour

• Whiskey: Bourbon is most traditional, though rye also works. Popular choices include Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, Elijah Craig, and Bulleit Bourbon.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key—avoid bottled juice.
• Sugar: Simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water) is commonly used, though some prefer superfine sugar.
• Bitters (optional): A dash or two of Angostura adds depth.
• Egg White (optional): Creates a silky, foamy texture.
• Garnish: Traditionally a maraschino cherry and/or an orange slice. A lemon peel twist is also common.

Tools You’ll Need

• Shaker tin
• Strainer (Hawthorne or fine mesh)
• Jigger (for accurate measurements)
• Rocks glass or coupe glass
• Ice cubes (standard or large)

Step-by-Step: How To Make a Classic Whiskey Sour

1. Combine ingredients: Add 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon, 3/4 oz (22 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup into a shaker tin.
2. Add egg white (optional): For a silky froth, add 1/2 oz of fresh egg white.
3. Dry shake: If using egg white, shake without ice for 10–15 seconds to emulsify.
4. Shake with ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.
5. Strain: Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, or into a coupe glass if served up.
6. Garnish: Top with a maraschino cherry, orange slice, or a dash of bitters on the foam.

Your Whiskey Sour should taste smooth, tart, and slightly sweet, with whiskey as the star of the show.

Choosing the Right Whiskey

• Bourbon: Sweet, full-bodied, and classic. Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, or Buffalo Trace are great options.
• Rye: Spicier and sharper. Try Bulleit Rye or Rittenhouse Rye.
• High-end options: Blanton’s Single Barrel, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, or Knob Creek for a luxurious sour.

Variations of the Whiskey Sour

The Whiskey Sour has countless riffs. Here are the most popular:

Boston Sour

Add egg white to create a silky, frothy version of the classic.

New York Sour

A classic Whiskey Sour topped with a float of red wine (Malbec or Shiraz), which adds depth and a striking layered look.

Maple Whiskey Sour

Replace simple syrup with maple syrup for a rich, autumnal twist.

Honey Whiskey Sour

Substitute honey syrup (2:1 honey to water) for a floral sweetness.

Smoky Whiskey Sour

Use a peated Scotch whisky instead of bourbon for a smoky, adventurous cocktail.

Fruit-Infused Whiskey Sour

Add muddled berries, peaches, or pineapple before shaking for a fruity spin.

Expert Tips for Making the Perfect Whiskey Sour

• Always use fresh citrus: Bottled lemon juice won’t deliver the right balance.
• Balance is key: Adjust sweetness or sourness to taste by tweaking syrup and lemon ratios.
• Shake hard: Proper shaking aerates the drink and creates a frothy texture.
• Use large ice: Larger cubes dilute slower, keeping flavors bold.
• Bitters as garnish: A few drops of Angostura on top of the foam add aroma and beauty.

Food Pairings with a Whiskey Sour

• Charcuterie: Cured meats and cheeses pair beautifully with the sweet-tart balance.
• Grilled meats: A Whiskey Sour’s acidity cuts through fatty dishes like steak or ribs.
• Seafood: Lemon-forward cocktails complement shrimp, scallops, or salmon.
• Desserts: Works well with cheesecake, lemon bars, or dark chocolate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using bottled lemon juice instead of fresh.
• Over-sweetening with too much syrup.
• Skipping the shake—this cocktail must be shaken properly.
• Ignoring garnish—cherries and citrus add essential aroma.

The Whiskey Sour in Pop Culture

The Whiskey Sour has appeared in countless films and novels, symbolizing classic cocktail culture. Its simple recipe and timeless charm have made it a staple in both high-end lounges and home bars alike.

Hosting a Whiskey Sour Night

Want to showcase the Whiskey Sour at your next party? Here’s how:

• Create a DIY sour station: Provide bourbon, rye, fresh lemons, syrups, and egg whites for guests to experiment.
• Offer variations: Print recipes for Boston, New York, and Maple Whiskey Sours.
• Garnish bar: Include cherries, citrus wheels, and aromatic bitters.
• Pair with food: Serve sliders, charcuterie boards, or seafood bites.

Why the Whiskey Sour Remains Popular

The Whiskey Sour’s appeal lies in its balance. It’s approachable for beginners, yet sophisticated enough for seasoned whiskey drinkers. It’s adaptable to different seasons, customizable with variations, and endlessly refreshing. In 2025, it remains one of the most-ordered cocktails worldwide.

Final Sip

Knowing how to make a Whiskey Sour is essential for any home bartender or whiskey enthusiast. With only a few ingredients and some simple techniques, you can master this cocktail and make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic or explore variations like the New York Sour, this timeless drink proves that simplicity, when done right, never goes out of style.