Did you know that there’s a holiday solely dedicated to the Whiskey Sour? That’s right, National Whiskey Sour Day is a celebration that gives us all an excuse to celebrate this delicious cocktail. This classic drink has stood the test of time, offering a perfect blend of tartness and warmth. In this blog post, we’ll chat about the history of the Whiskey Sour and show you how to make a Whiskey Sour (and a few Whiskey Sour variations)! Let’s get started!

What Is a Whiskey Sour?

A Whiskey Sour is a cocktail that balances the bold flavors of whiskey with the tang of citrus and the subtle sweetness of simple syrup. It’s a refreshing and versatile drink that can be enjoyed year-round, with its harmonious blend of ingredients making it an extremely popular choice for those who love well-balanced cocktails.

What Is the History of the Whiskey Sour?

The history of the Whiskey Sour is a tale that goes back to the early days of naval exploration. Sailors of old faced the challenge of scurvy during their long voyages, prompting the inclusion of citrus fruits in their diets to combat the ailment. 

This practice of consuming citrus extended to their beverages, where lemon or lime juice was mixed with spirits to create a refreshing concoction. This early version of the Whiskey Sour served a dual purpose – providing both hydration and a dose of vitamin C.

The Whiskey Sour in Literature

The first documented recipe for a Whiskey Sour can be found in Jerry Thomas’ 1862 book “The Bartender’s Guide,” which is considered one of the earliest cocktail guides. This publication included a recipe that called for whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup – a combination that closely resembles the modern iteration of the cocktail.

Over time, the Whiskey Sour’s popularity entered the broader landscape of cocktail culture. The simplicity of its ingredients, coupled with its harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and spirituous flavors, still contribute to its enduring appeal.

When is National Whiskey Sour Day?

National Whiskey Sour Day falls on August 25th each year. It’s a day dedicated to raising a glass to this timeless cocktail and indulging in its delightful flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of cocktails, National Whiskey Sour Day offers the perfect opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship behind this classic drink.

What Is the Best Whiskey for a Whiskey Sour?

Selecting the ideal whiskey for a Whiskey Sour is a delicate balancing act. You want a harmonious balance of flavors. When it comes to this classic cocktail, it’s best to opt for a whiskey that enhances the cocktail’s profile without overpowering its nuanced elements. 

Generally, a bourbon or a rye whiskey is the preferred choice for crafting a well-rounded Whiskey Sour.

Bourbon

Bourbon, known for its smoothness and notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, contributes a rich and inviting character to the cocktail. The sweetness inherent in many bourbons complements the tartness of the citrus, resulting in a balanced and approachable drink. 

Rye

On the other hand, rye whiskey imparts a spicier and slightly peppery edge, which can add complexity and depth to the Whiskey Sour’s flavor profile.

Proof

When making your selection, consider the whiskey’s proof as well. A whiskey with a moderate to high proof can withstand the addition of citrus and sweeteners, maintaining its presence in the mix. 

Ultimately, the best whiskey for your Whiskey Sour comes down to personal preference. You could even try out some local spirits in your Whiskey Sour to see what you like best. To find a distillery near you that distills bourbon or rye, check out our by-state directory.

Tips for Making the Best Whiskey Sour Cocktail

Crafting the perfect Whiskey Sour requires a blend of precision and creativity. To ensure your cocktail is a hit, consider these expert tips:

1. Start with fresh citrus juice – whether it’s lemon or lime – as it’s the backbone of the drink’s refreshing tang. Use a citrus juicer to extract the juice, ensuring you get the full burst of flavor without any bitterness from the peel. 
2. Balance is key. Adjust the ratio of whiskey, citrus juice, and simple syrup to find the sweet spot that suits your taste preferences. Remember, a good Whiskey Sour maintains a harmonious equilibrium between sweet, sour, and spirit.
3. Lastly, presentation matters. Strain your Whiskey Sour into a glass filled with fresh ice, and consider garnishing with a twist of lemon or even a maraschino cherry for an extra touch of elegance.

How to Make a Whiskey Sour for National Whiskey Sour Day

Celebrating National Whiskey Sour Day with a perfectly crafted cocktail is a delightful way to pay homage to this timeless drink. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a classic Whiskey Sour that will help you kick off National Whiskey Sour Day:

Whiskey Sour Recipe

1. Gather Your Ingredients: Assemble your whiskey of choice, fresh lemons for juicing, and simple syrup. Having all your ingredients ready ensures a smooth and efficient cocktail-making process.
2. Prepare Your Tools: Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice. A shaker with a built-in strainer will make the process even more seamless.
3. Measure and Pour: Pour 2 oz of your selected whiskey into the shaker. This is the heart of your Whiskey Sour and sets the tone for the drink’s flavor.
4. Add Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice into the shaker. Using freshly squeezed citrus juice enhances the cocktail’s vibrancy and zing.
5. Incorporate Simple Syrup: Pour 1/2 oz of simple syrup into the mix. This sweet element balances the sourness of the lemon juice, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.
6. Shake, Shake, Shake: Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. The shaking chills the ingredients, blends the flavors, and creates a delightful frothiness in the final cocktail.
7. Strain into a Glass: Using the shaker’s built-in strainer or a separate strainer, carefully pour the mixed cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice. The ice will keep your Whiskey Sour cool and refreshing.
8. Garnish: For a final touch of visual appeal and aroma, garnish your Whiskey Sour with a twist of lemon. The citrus oils released from the twist enhance the overall drinking experience.
9. Savor and Celebrate: Sip and enjoy!

Does a Whiskey Sour Have Egg White?

A traditional Whiskey Sour recipe does not typically include egg as an ingredient. However, there is a variation of the Whiskey Sour called a “Boston Sour” or “Whiskey Sour with Egg,” where a small amount of egg white is added to the cocktail. The addition of egg white can create a frothy and silky texture in the drink, enhancing its visual appeal and mouthfeel. Here is a recipe for you to try:

Whiskey Sour With Egg White (Boston Sour)

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz whiskey, ¾ oz fresh lemon juice, and ½ oz simple syrup.
2. Add one egg white to the shaker. Be sure to separate the egg white from the yolk carefully to avoid any shell fragments.
3. Dry shake (shake without ice) the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This step helps emulsify the egg white and create the characteristic frothy texture.
4. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for an additional 10-15 seconds to chill the drink and further mix the ingredients.
5. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice. The ice will help maintain the drink’s temperature and dilution.
6. Garnish the Boston Sour with a twist of lemon.
7. Serve and enjoy your Whiskey Sour with egg white!

Other Whiskey Sour Variations to Try for National Whiskey Sour Day

The Maple Bourbon Sour

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add 2 oz bourbon, ¾ oz fresh lemon juice, and ½ oz maple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist.

The Blackberry Basil Sour

1. Muddle 5 fresh blackberries and 4 basil leaves in a cocktail shaker.
2. Fill the shaker with ice.
3. Add 2 oz whiskey, ¾ oz fresh lemon juice, and ½ oz simple syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to infuse the flavors and chill the mixture.
5. Double-strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice to remove any fruit or herb pieces.
6. Garnish with a skewered blackberry and a small sprig of basil.

Find the Best Local Spirits for Your Cocktails at Distillery Nearby

Remember, you can elevate your cocktail experience by discovering local distilleries. Whether you’re an avid Whiskey Sour enthusiast or a curious newcomer, visiting a distillery can provide a new appreciation for bourbon, rye, or whiskey. Check out our by-state directory and select your state to find and connect with distilleries near you!