Cocktail recipe

New York Sour

A bold whiskey sour with a red wine float, adding depth and a striking layered look, served in a rocks glass.

Cocktail List 5 minutes Mocktail
About measurement options
Metric (ml)
Volumes are shown in millilitres or litres.
US (fl oz, cups and spoons)
Uses US fluid ounces, cups and spoons. 1 US fl oz ≈ 29.57 ml.
Imperial (UK and Canada)
The UK and Canada share the imperial fluid ounce. 1 imperial fl oz ≈ 28.41 ml. Small volumes are shown in ml.
Bar (parts and dashes)
On CocktailFun, 1 part = 30 ml. Dashes stay as dashes. Very small volumes may be shown in ml.
New York Sour

Description

The New York Sour is a sophisticated twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, featuring a dramatic red wine float. It is believed to have originated in the late 19th century and gained popularity in New York City, hence its name. This cocktail combines bourbon or rye whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup, creating a tart and slightly sweet base. The red wine float, traditionally a dry red like Malbec or Shiraz, adds a rich, fruity depth and a visually striking ombre effect.

The contrast between the whiskey and wine layers makes this a visually impressive and flavourful cocktail, perfect for whiskey lovers looking for something unique.

Ingredients

  • 60 ml Bourbon
  • 25 ml lemon juice
  • 20 ml Simple Syrup
  • 20 ml Red Wine (float on top)
  • 1 lemon (optional garnish)
  • 1 cherry (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Measure into a shaker: 60 ml Bourbon, 25 ml lemon juice, 20 ml Simple Syrup.
  2. Shake hard with ice until cold. Strain into rocks glasses over fresh ice.
  3. Float the following by pouring slowly over the back of a spoon held just above each drink: 20 ml Red Wine.
  4. If desired, garnish each glass with lemon or a cherry. Serve without stirring the layers.

Recommended glassware

Lowball Glass
Lowball Glass (Recommended)

A short, sturdy glass for spirit-forward cocktails served over ice.

180–300 ml Short, wide, heavy-bottomed tumbler.

Best for: Old Fashioned, Negroni, Boulevardier, Whiskey Sour over ice, Rusty Nail.

Garnish: Great for orange twists, cherries, and large clear ice cubes.

Quick facts

5 minutes Easy Approx. 18% ABV 2.1 alcohol units 190 kcal Ice Mocktail
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