Cocktail recipe

Whiskey Sour

A tangy mix of whiskey and lemon juice.

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.
Whiskey Sour

Description

The Whiskey Sour is one of the great classic whiskey cocktails, loved for its smooth, lively balance of strength, citrus, and sweetness. Made with whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup, it delivers a flavour that feels both bold and refreshing, giving it a timeless appeal that has kept it popular for generations. The whiskey provides warmth, depth, and character, while the lemon cuts through with a bright sharpness that keeps every sip crisp and invigorating. A touch of sweetness rounds everything out, creating a cocktail that is rich in flavour without ever feeling heavy.

What makes the Whiskey Sour so captivating is its versatility and elegance. It can be served in a beautifully simple form or elevated with egg white, which adds a silky texture and a smooth, frothy top that makes the drink feel even more luxurious. Often finished with a cherry or a twist of citrus, it looks as inviting as it tastes. Whether enjoyed as a relaxed evening drink or ordered as a statement classic at the bar, the Whiskey Sour remains a standout choice for anyone who appreciates a cocktail with balance, history, and real personality.

Ingredients

  • 60 ml Whiskey
  • 30 ml lemon juice
  • 15 ml Simple Syrup
  • 1 piece Egg White (optional, for texture)
  • 1 lemon (for garnish)
  • 1 cherry (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Measure into a shaker: 60 ml Whiskey, 30 ml lemon juice, 15 ml Simple Syrup. If desired, add: 1 piece Egg White.
  2. If using egg white, seal the shaker and shake first without ice to build foam.
  3. Add ice and shake hard until the shaker feels cold.
  4. Strain into rocks glasses over fresh ice.
  5. Finish each glass with lemon or a cherry and serve.

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.

Coupe Glass
Coupe Glass

An elegant stemmed glass for shaken or stirred cocktails served up.

Works well if served straight up.

120–240 ml Stemmed glass with a broad shallow bowl.

Best for: Daiquiri, Sidecar, Manhattan served up, Gimlet, Clover Club.

Garnish: Great for expressed citrus peels, cherries, and small edible flowers.

Quick facts

5 minutes Easy Approx. 18% ABV 2.2 alcohol units 190 kcal Ice Mocktail
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