The Whiskey Sour is a timeless cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century. It’s a simple yet delicious drink that features a perfect balance of whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar. Whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur or a cocktail novice, learning how to make a Whiskey Sour is a must.
How to make a whiskey sour? In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making this classic cocktail, including the ingredients you’ll need and some tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. So, grab your shaker and some whiskey, and let’s get started on making a delicious Whiskey Sour!
Whiskey Sour Ingredients

How to Make A Whiskey Sour
The whiskey sour, also known as the bourbon sour, is a timeless cocktail that holds a spot on the International Bartender Association’s (IBA) official cocktail list. As an IBA official cocktail, it has a specific definition that must be followed. However, like many classic cocktails, there is always room for interpretation and experimentation. Our version of the whiskey sour stays true to the original definition, with just a few tweaks to make it our own.
The ingredients for making a whiskey sour recipe are delightfully simple. All you need is high-quality bourbon whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and sweeteners, such as maple syrup or simple syrup. Garnish with orange peel and a cocktail cherry to add a touch of elegance to this classic sour cocktail.
We suggest you to use maple syrup to sweeten our cocktails. It’s a natural sweetener that brings a unique flavor to the drink that simple syrup cannot match. In side-by-side taste tests, maple syrup always comes out on top! Plus, we always have it on hand in our refrigerator. However, if you prefer the straightforward taste of simple syrup, feel free to use that instead.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many other variations of the whiskey sour that you can try. For example, you can swap out the sweetener and make a Gold Rush by using honey syrup instead of maple or simple syrup. Alternatively, try making a whiskey sour with lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different flavor profile. Or, add a splash of amaretto to your whiskey sour to create a deliciously nutty and sweet amaretto whiskey sour.
Another fun way to experiment with the whiskey sour is by trying different types of whiskey. While bourbon whiskey is the traditional choice, you can also use rye whiskey or even Irish whiskey for a unique twist on this classic cocktail. The type of whiskey you choose will affect the overall flavor profile of your drink, so it’s worth trying a few different options to find your favorite.
When it comes to making a whiskey sour, the key is to use high-quality ingredients and to balance the sweet and sour flavors just right. Start by combining 2 ounces of bourbon whiskey, 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of maple syrup or simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a twist of orange peel and cocktail cherry, and enjoy!
How to Make a Whiskey Sour

How to Make A Whiskey Sour
To make a Whiskey Sour, simply shake up the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice, and you’re good to go! The recipe below includes measurements in both ounces and tablespoons to make it easy for family cooking. Just shake all the ingredients together in a cocktail shaker until cold. Alternatively, you can cheat and just stir them together until the syrup has dissolved. Serve over lots of ice and enjoy! For an extra stunning look, try using clear ice.
Traditionally, Whiskey Sour are served with a slice of orange and a cocktail cherry. For a frothy foam topping, you can also add an egg white, which turns it into a Boston Sour! Check out our recipe for Whiskey Sour with Egg White for more information. If you make this drink with bourbon, you can also call it a Bourbon Sour.
Why Make This Whiskey Sour Recipe

How to Make A Whiskey Sour
If you’re interested in trying out our special recipe, the steps are simple and easy to follow. Start with high-quality bourbon whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and sweet maple syrup. Combine all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice, shake well, and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish the drink with an orange peel and a cocktail cherry for an extra touch of elegance. The result is a delectable sweet-tart cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
The beauty of this recipe is that it uses natural, wholesome ingredients, which means that the drink is not only delicious but also healthier than pre-made mixes. Plus, the maple syrup adds a nuanced flavor to the drink that simple syrup cannot match. It’s no wonder that our family and friends cannot get enough of this amazing cocktail!
In addition to enjoying the classic whiskey sour recipe, we also like to experiment with different variations of the drink. For example, you can swap out the bourbon whiskey for rye whiskey or Irish whiskey to create a unique twist on the traditional recipe. You can also try using honey syrup instead of maple or simple syrup to create a “Gold Rush” whiskey sour or use lime juice instead of lemon for an exciting twist on the classic recipe.
Whiskey sour mix

How to Make A Whiskey Sour
Suppose you’re in the market for a whiskey sour mix, but you’re not keen on those store-bought containers that are loaded with sugar. Or perhaps you’re hosting a party and want to serve up a batch of whiskey sours without having to mix each drink separately. In either case, we’ve got you covered! This recipe is the perfect solution because you can use it as a mix to make lots of drinks at once!
Here’s how to make a whiskey sour mix that will yield eight drinks: Start by mixing one cup of fresh lemon juice with 3/4 cup of pure maple syrup. Alternatively, you can make your own homemade sweet and sour mix, which can be used for a variety of cocktails. To make a single drink, all you have to do is measure out 3 1/2 tablespoons of the mix and 4 tablespoons of whiskey. It’s that simple!
By making your own whiskey sour mix, you have complete control over the flavors and sweetness levels of your drinks. Plus, you can rest easy knowing that your cocktail contains natural and wholesome ingredients, without any artificial additives or preservatives.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, there are many ways to customize your whiskey sour mix to suit your preferences. For example, try using different types of citrus juices, such as lime or grapefruit, for a unique twist on the classic recipe. You can also experiment with different sweeteners, such as honey or agave syrup, to create a different flavor profile.
Another great thing about making your own whiskey sour mix is that you can easily adjust the recipe according to your needs. For instance, if you’re making a larger batch of cocktails, you can simply double or triple the recipe to suit the occasion. Alternatively, if you prefer your drinks on the sweeter or more tart side, you can adjust the ratio of lemon juice to maple syrup accordingly.
If you’re worried about the maple syrup being too thick to mix well, don’t fret! Simply heat the syrup in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes more liquidy. This will make it easier to mix with the lemon juice and ensure that your whiskey sours have a consistent flavor profile.
Looking for more easy cocktail recipes?

How to Make A Whiskey Sour
In addition to the delicious Whiskey Sour recipe provided, we have compiled a list of some of our favorite cocktail recipes for you to enjoy!
First up is the classic Margarita cocktail, made with lime, tequila, and Cointreau. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and sour and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. If you’re looking for more Margarita variations, we have over 10 ways to make this classic cocktail!
Next is the refreshing Gin and Tonic cocktail. This simple two-ingredient drink is a classic for a reason. Our recipe includes some secrets to take this crisp, botanical drink over the top and make it even more refreshing.
If you’re in the mood for a light and bubbly cocktail, look no further than the Tom Collins. This popular sweet-and-sour cocktail is a crowd-pleaser and is best enjoyed with a cherry on top.
For a delicious brunch cocktail, try our Prosecco Mimosa recipe. Made with Italian Prosecco, orange juice, and a dash of Cointreau, it’s the perfect bubbly and tart drink to accompany your brunch plans.
Lastly, we have the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. This is the oldest cocktail there is and is made using a sugar cube, bitters, and bourbon whiskey for a truly timeless drink. If you’re a bourbon lover, be sure to check out all of our best bourbon cocktails for more inspiration!
This whiskey sour recipe is…

How to Make A Whiskey Sour
This recipe for Whiskey Sour is suitable for vegetarians and is free from gluten and dairy products. Additionally, the cocktail is naturally sweet and does not contain any refined sugar. With these qualities, this Whiskey Sour recipe is a great choice for those with dietary restrictions or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cocktail recipes. The natural sweetness of the ingredients makes for a delicious and satisfying drink without the need for added sweeteners or artificial flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a drink at home, this Whiskey Sour recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your shaker and your ingredients, and get ready to mix up a delicious and healthy cocktail that you can feel good about enjoying!
Our Favorite Home Bar Equipment

How to Make A Whiskey Sour
When it comes to creating a home bar, having the right equipment is essential. From glasses to shakers, each piece serves a unique purpose in crafting delicious cocktails that will impress your guests. Here are some of our favorite home bar equipment choices that we recommend:
- Natalia Glasses – These glasses are perfect for serving up classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan. Their sleek design is sure to impress your guests, and they are sturdy enough to withstand frequent use.
- C&B Stemmed Glasses – These elegant glasses are great for serving up martinis or other upscale cocktails. The stem provides a comfortable grip and helps keep the drink at the perfect temperature.
- Bar Cart – A bar cart is a must-have for any home bar. It’s a stylish and practical way to store all of your equipment and ingredients in one place. Plus, it makes it easy to move your bar from room to room or even outside during parties.
- Boston Shaker – A Boston shaker is a two-piece cocktail shaker that is perfect for making shaken cocktails like the Margarita or Daiquiri. It’s easy to use and produces a frothy, well-mixed drink.
- Juicer – A juicer is an essential tool for any home bar. It allows you to extract fresh juice from lemons, limes, and other citrus fruits, which is a key ingredient in many classic cocktails.
- Cocktail Measuring – Measuring your ingredients accurately is crucial whenmaking cocktails, and having the right tools makes it much easier. A cocktail measuring cup or jigger is a must-have item for any home bar. It allows you to measure out the exact amounts of each ingredient needed for your recipe, which ensures that your cocktails are well-balanced and delicious.
Best Whiskey Sour Recipe

How to Make A Whiskey Sour
Here is a recipe for the best Whiskey Sour cocktail that is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. bourbon whiskey
- 3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz. simple syrup
- Ice
- Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the bourbon whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to blend the ingredients and chill the drink.
- Strain the cocktail into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish the drink with a lemon twist or cherry, if desired.
The key to a great Whiskey Sour is to use fresh lemon juice and a good quality bourbon whiskey. Simple syrup can be easily made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over low heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved.
The classic Whiskey Sour recipe uses bourbon whiskey, but you can experiment with other types of whiskey to create a unique flavor profile. Additionally, you can add an egg white to the cocktail shaker to create a frothy texture on top of the drink.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making a delicious whiskey sour at home is easier than you might think. By following a few simple steps and using quality ingredients, you can create a cocktail that is sure to impress your guests or provide a satisfying treat for yourself. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or want to experiment with different variations, there are many ways to customize your whiskey sour to suit your tastes.
With a little bit of practice and experimentation, you can become a master mixologist and enjoy the perfect whiskey sour every time. So why not give it a try and see how easy it is to make this timeless cocktail at home? Cheers! – Monopole Wine
FAQs of How to Make A Whiskey Sour
Q: What is a Whiskey Sour?
A: A Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail made with whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar. It’s a refreshing and delicious drink that is perfect for any occasion.
Q: What kind of whiskey should I use to make a Whiskey Sour?
A: Bourbon whiskey is the most common type of whiskey used in a Whiskey Sour, but you can experiment with other types of whiskey to create a unique flavor profile.
Q: What is simple syrup?
A: Simple syrup is a sweetener made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over low heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. It’s commonly used in cocktails as a sweetening agent.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
A: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor in a Whiskey Sour, but bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.
Q: What is the ratio of ingredients in a Whiskey Sour?
A: The most common ratio for a Whiskey Sour is 2 parts whiskey, 3/4 part fresh lemon juice, and 3/4 part simple syrup. However, you can adjust the ratio to suit your taste preferences.
Q: How do I make a Whiskey Sour?
A: To make a Whiskey Sour, simply shake whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Strain the mixture over ice in a glass and garnishwith a lemon twist or cherry, if desired.
Q: Can I make a Whiskey Sour without a cocktail shaker?
A: While a cocktail shaker is the preferred method for mixing a Whiskey Sour, you can also stir the ingredients together in a glass until the sugar has dissolved. However, shaking the ingredients in a cocktail shaker will result in a more well-blended and chilled drink.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to my Whiskey Sour?
A: Yes, you can add other ingredients to your Whiskey Sour to create a unique flavor profile. For example, some people add bitters or egg white to create a frothy texture on top of the drink. However, the classic Whiskey Sour recipe is simply whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
Q: What is the best way to serve a Whiskey Sour?
A: A Whiskey Sour is typically served over ice in a rocks glass, and can be garnished with a lemon twist or cherry for added flavor and presentation. It’s a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed at any time of day or at any occasion.
Q: How can I adjust the sweetness or sourness of my Whiskey Sour?
A: The sweetness and sourness of a Whiskey Sour can be adjusted by varying the amount of simple syrup or lemon juice used in the recipe. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more simple syrup. If you prefer a more sour drink, add more lemon juice.