History of the Whiskey Sour
The origins of the Whiskey Sour date back to the mid-19th century. It first appeared in print in Jerry Thomas’s 1862 "The Bartender’s Guide," which is the first guidebook dedicated to modern bartending. Sailors used to drink a simplified version of this cocktail to prevent scurvy, combining liquor, citrus, and sugar for both nutrition and morale. Fast forward to today, the Whiskey Sour has retained its spot as a staple on cocktail menus worldwide.
The Essential Ingredients
A good Whiskey Sour requires simple, quality ingredients:
- Whiskey: Bourbon is the most common choice, but you can also experiment with rye or other types of whiskey to suit your personal taste.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for achieving that perfect tartness.
- Simple Syrup: A mix of sugar and water, which can be easily made at home.
- Egg White (Optional): Adds a silky texture and frothiness to the cocktail.
- Garnish: Often garnished with a cherry and a slice of orange or lemon.
Let's dive into making this timeless cocktail.
Whiskey Sour Recipe
Ingredients
- 60 ml Bourbon
- 25 ml Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 15 ml Simple syrup (1:1 ratio of sugar and water)
- Optional: 1 Egg white (For a frothier texture)
- Ice cubes
Garnish
- Maraschino cherry
- Orange or lemon slice
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Tools and Ingredients: Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients and tools ready. A cocktail shaker, a strainer, and a 60/30 ml or 50/25 ml jigger for measuring will be very helpful.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using). The egg white is optional but recommended for a smoother texture.
3. Dry Shake: If using egg white, first shake the mixture without ice. This is called a "dry shake" and helps to emulsify the egg white, creating a luscious froth.
4. Shake with Ice: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. The aim is to chill and dilute the ingredients, resulting in a well-balanced cocktail.
5. Strainer Time: Using a strainer, pour the mixture into an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice cubes. If no egg white was added, you can skip the strainer and pour directly over the ice.
6. Garnish: Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a slice of orange or lemon. These add a touch of visual appeal and a hint of extra flavour.
7. Enjoy: Your classic Whiskey Sour is ready to be enjoyed. Sip slowly and savour each moment!
Conclusion
The Whiskey Sour is more than just a cocktail; it's a testament to the balance and simplicity in cocktail craftsmanship. With its straightforward list of ingredients and quick preparation, it is the perfect drink whether you're winding down after a long day or entertaining guests.
So next time you’re in the mood for something refreshing yet full-bodied, turn to the Whiskey Sour. Cheers!