As a bartender, I have seen my fair share of sour faces when customers are served a poorly made cocktail.
It’s not just about the ingredients, it’s about the balance. A good cocktail should be like a good relationship, a perfect balance of sweet and sour.
It’s no secret that the sour cocktail is a classic, and for good reason. The combination of tartness and sweetness creates a refreshing and satisfying drink that can be enjoyed year-round.
But with so many sour cocktail recipes out there, it can be overwhelming to choose which one to try.
That’s where I come in. I’ve spent countless hours behind the bar perfecting my sour cocktail recipes, and I’m here to share my favorites with you.
From the classic Whiskey Sour to the lesser-known Pisco Sour, I’ve got you covered.
So, whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a newbie looking to impress your friends at your next dinner party, keep reading for my top picks for the best sour cocktail recipes.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
1. Rum Sour Cocktail
The Rum Sour Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic sours cocktail. The combination of rum and lemon juice creates a tart yet mellow sweetness, with the luscious taste of rum shining through. This cocktail is easy to make and allows for creativity by varying the rum, sweetener, or citrus juice.
The addition of lime juice adds an extra layer of interest to the final flavour profile. The optional egg white lends viscosity and smoothness to the liquid, creating an enviable foamy top. Overall, the Rum Sour Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious sours cocktail.
2. Classic Whiskey Sour
The Classic Whiskey Sour is a timeless cocktail that has stood the test of time. It's an easy-to-make drink that requires only a few ingredients, but the end result is a perfectly balanced blend of sweet and sour flavors. The history of the cocktail dates back to the early days of cocktails, and it's easy to see why it's still so popular today.
The whiskey sour is a perfect drink for bourbon lovers, and it's a great way to enjoy a refreshing cocktail any time of year. If you're looking for a classic cocktail that's easy to make and always delicious, the whiskey sour is definitely worth a try.
3. Whisky Sour
The Whisky Sour is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century. It is a perfect blend of whisky, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup, served over ice with a lemon wedge or cherry garnish.
The drink's perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors, with a rich smoky taste from the whisky, makes it a must-try for anyone who loves whisky or sour drinks.
4. Classic Whiskey Sour Cocktail
The Classic Whiskey Sour Cocktail is a timeless drink that has been enjoyed for decades. It's a perfect blend of sweet and sour with a hint of whiskey that gives it an alcohol bite. Made with high-quality ingredients, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good sour cocktail.
The history of the cocktail dates back to the 1700s, making it a classic that has stood the test of time. If you're looking for a refreshing and elegant cocktail to serve your guests, the Classic Whiskey Sour Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
5. Vodka Sour
The Vodka Sour is a refreshing and sweet cocktail that's perfect for anyone who loves tart and sour drinks. It's a part of the sour cocktail family and uses vodka as the liquor, lemon juice as the citrus, and simple syrup as the sweetener.
The egg white foam adds a vintage vibe to the drink and makes for a creamy, frothy topping that's sure to impress. The addition of bitters is optional, but it adds a complex and bitter undertone to the drink. If you're looking for a classy-looking sour that's quick and easy to make, the Vodka Sour is definitely worth a try.
6. Amaretto Sour
The Amaretto Sour is a classic cocktail that has been around since the early 1970s. It's a refreshing, easy-to-make drink that only requires three ingredients. With its bright and unique flavor, it's perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or enjoying with friends.
The best part is that it's only 7% ABV, so you can enjoy it without worrying about getting too tipsy. Overall, the Amaretto Sour is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
7. Rum Sour
The Rum Sour is a classic cocktail made with dark rum and fresh lemon juice. It's sweet, tart, and refreshing with a hint of spiciness.
What sets it apart is its versatility – you can customize it to suit your taste. It's a perfect balance of sweet and sour and is sure to impress your guests. Give it a try and experience the magic for yourself.
8. Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
The Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is a delightful twist on the classic whiskey sour cocktail. This cocktail has a bright and refreshing flavor, thanks to the addition of lemon juice. The cinnamon stick in the simple syrup adds a subtle warmth to the drink, making it perfect for sipping on a chilly evening.
The egg white gives the cocktail a velvety texture and a frothy foam on top, making it an impressive-looking drink to serve to guests. The best part about this cocktail is that you can easily customize it by infusing different flavors into your syrup. Overall, the Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking to expand their sour cocktail repertoire.
9. 1888 Rum Sour
The 1888 Rum Sour is a premium double aged rum cocktail that is a must-try for any sour cocktail lover. The balance between the smoothness of the rum, acidity from the lemon juice, sweetness from the simple syrup, and frothy egg white creates a pleasant and smooth cocktail on the palate.
The bitters add an aromatic touch to the drink, making it a well-rounded cocktail. The 1888 Rum used in this cocktail is aged in ex-bourbon American oak casks and European oak sherry casks, giving it a unique flavor profile. This cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate high-quality ingredients and a well-balanced cocktail.
10. Bitter Eastern Sour Cocktail
The Bitter Eastern Sour Cocktail is a perfect fall cocktail that adds a twist to the classic Whiskey Sour. It features Campari, citrus, orgeat, and bourbon to create a tangy and slightly bitter cocktail that is perfect for cooler weather. The pop of red from Campari gives the cocktail a unique visual appeal that sets it apart from other Sour Cocktails.
The blend of citrus and sweet almond with whiskey as its base makes it a perfect drink for sweater weather. The slight bitterness from Campari adds a perfect edge to the sweetness and makes it a perfect fall drink. If you are looking for a unique and flavorful Sour Cocktail to try this fall, the Bitter Eastern Sour Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
11. Bourbon Sour Cocktail
The Bourbon Sour Cocktail is a classic drink that combines the sweet and sour flavors of bourbon, orange liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. This refreshing and lip-smacking cocktail is perfect for any gathering, especially in the summer.
The cocktail is garnished with a cherry and a lemon twist, adding an extra layer of flavor and aroma to the drink. If you're a fan of whiskey sours, this cocktail is definitely worth a try. The Bourbon Sour Cocktail is one of the best sour cocktail recipes out there, and it's easy to see why.
12. Tequila Sour
Looking for a tangy and refreshing drink that combines the vintage vibes of a 1920's sour cocktail with the classic flavors of a margarita? Look no further than the Tequila Sour! This sour cocktail combines three key elements – liquor, citrus, and sweetener – to create a drink that is both classy and laid-back.
The addition of egg white foam and a few drops of Angostura bitters take this drink to the next level, adding a rich, creamy texture and complex undertones. Whether you're sipping it on a warm summer evening or enjoying it as a brunch cocktail, the Tequila Sour is sure to become a new favorite in your cocktail repertoire.
13. Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for over 150 years. It is a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, with the key ingredients being whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup. The cocktail is typically garnished with an orange twist and a cherry, and can be made with or without egg white.
The Whiskey Sour is a versatile cocktail that can be made with different types of whiskey and can be easily customized with variations such as the Boston Sour, New York Sour, Continental Sour, and Paris Sour. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a well-balanced and delicious drink.
14. Perfect Amaretto Sour
The Perfect Amaretto Sour is a classic sour cocktail made with amaretto liqueur and a hint of bourbon. This tangy and sweet drink is balanced by the rich and complex flavors of oak, vanilla, and caramel from the bourbon. The addition of egg white gives it a frothy texture and creamy rich flavor.
Originating from Italy, amaretto is a distinctive almond liqueur that adds a unique flavor to this cocktail. It is a great drink for sipping anytime and is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet tart balance in their cocktails. If you haven't tried the Perfect Amaretto Sour yet, it's time to give it a shot!
15. Cherry Vodka Sour Cocktail
The Cherry Vodka Sour Cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. This delicately hued drink is made with cherry vodka, sour mix, and bubbly soda, creating a refreshing and flirty taste.
The cocktail is perfect for Valentine's Day or any other romantic occasion, and can be enjoyed alone or with a loved one. The addition of maraschino cherries and lime wedges as garnish adds a touch of elegance to the drink. If you're looking for a fun and easy-to-make cocktail that is sure to impress, the Cherry Vodka Sour Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
16. Jägermeister Sour
The Jägermeister Sour is a unique twist on the classic sour cocktail recipe. Instead of using traditional spirits like rum or whiskey, this cocktail features Jägermeister, a herbal liqueur made from 56 different herbs and spices. The addition of orange zest gives the cocktail a refreshing citrusy note.
Some may be hesitant to try this cocktail due to its use of egg white, but it can easily be substituted with aquafaba for a vegan-friendly option. Overall, the Jägermeister Sour is a must-try for those looking to experiment with new and exciting cocktail recipes.
17. New York Sour Cocktail
The New York Sour Cocktail is a classic whiskey sour with a twist – a float of red wine on top! The combination of the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup creates a perfect balance of sweet and sour, while the red wine adds a fruity richness to the cocktail.
This cocktail is not only delicious, but also visually stunning with the red wine float on top of the golden whiskey sour. If you're a whiskey lover looking for a new twist on a classic cocktail, the New York Sour is definitely worth a try!
18. Aperol Negroni Sour Cocktail
The Aperol Negroni Sour Cocktail is a refreshing and complexly flavored drink that is perfect for summer sipping. This cocktail is a twist on the classic Negroni, using lower-octane Aperol in place of Campari and sweet elderflower liqueur instead of vermouth. The addition of fresh lemon juice gives it a tart edge, while the egg white treatment creates a fluffy foam that lightens up the drink.
The resulting cocktail is sweet, sour, fruity, floral, and bitter all in one sip. It is a perfect drink for those who are looking for a more complex and unique flavor profile. If you're looking for a refreshing and delicious drink to enjoy this summer, the Aperol Negroni Sour Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
19. Spiced Hibiscus Vodka Sour Cocktail
The Spiced Hibiscus Vodka Sour Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic vodka sour. With the addition of spiced hibiscus tea, this cocktail boasts a sweet and tart flavor with floral notes and a hint of cinnamon and ginger. The use of egg white or aquafaba adds a silky, foamy texture that is sure to impress.
This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday gathering or a cozy date night in. If you're looking for a naturally sweetened cocktail that is both festive and delicious, the Spiced Hibiscus Vodka Sour Cocktail is a must-try.
20. Winter Citrus Sour
The Winter Citrus Sour is a refreshing and bright gin sour cocktail that perfectly balances tartness and sweetness. Made with fresh grapefruit and lemon juice, this cocktail is perfect for those who crave a lip-puckering citrus flavor.
The subtle gin used in the recipe complements the citrus notes without overpowering them. The cocktail has a blush color and can be served chilled in a coupe glass or martini glass. The Winter Citrus Sour is a perfect cocktail for a winter day and can be enjoyed by anyone who loves a good sour cocktail.
21. Cherry Vodka Sour
The Cherry Vodka Sour is a delightful twist on the classic Vodka Sour cocktail. This vibrant pink drink is sweetened with cherry-infused simple syrup and balanced with tart lemon juice. The fluffy, foamy topping is achieved by double shaking the cocktail with a raw egg white.
The result is a beautifully presented, sophisticated cocktail that is surprisingly easy to make. The Cherry Vodka Sour is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting without straying too far from the classic cocktail. Its unique flavor and stunning appearance make it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
22. Black Cherry Whiskey Sour
The Black Cherry Whiskey Sour is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. Made with smooth whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and sweet black cherry syrup, this drink is a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. The addition of cherries and lemon slices as garnish adds a pop of color and flavor to the cocktail, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Whether you're looking for a quick and easy cocktail for a quiet night in or a crowd-pleaser for your next party, the Black Cherry Whiskey Sour is a great choice. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious this cocktail can be?
23. Cinnamon Tequila Sour
The Cinnamon Tequila Sour is a cozy and flavorful fall cocktail made with tequila, lemon juice, and a touch of cinnamon. Inspired by the Fairweather cocktail at the Ace Hotel in Pittsburgh, this drink is a unique twist on the classic tequila cocktail.
The addition of egg whites gives it a foamy texture on top, but they can be omitted or replaced with aquafaba for a vegan-friendly option. Overall, the Cinnamon Tequila Sour is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and cozy fall drink.
24. Trinidad Sour
Trinidad Sour is a classic cocktail made with rye whiskey, lemon juice, Orgeat syrup, and a heavy dose of bitters.
The bitters give it a spicy kick that balances perfectly with the zingy lemon and almond-citrus notes of Orgeat syrup. It is a unique twist on a sour cocktail and a must-try for anyone looking for an intriguing flavor profile.
25. New York Sour
The New York Sour is a whiskey sour cocktail with a fruity twist. Red wine is added to deepen the flavors and create a stunning layered effect. This cocktail is perfect for bourbon lovers and can be made with different types of whiskey.
The addition of red wine made it the New York Sour. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and unique twist on the classic whiskey sour.
26. Boston Sour Cocktail
The Boston Sour Cocktail is a classic whiskey sour with a creamy and smooth texture thanks to the addition of egg white.
It's made with whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup, and can be garnished with a red wine float or lemon and orange juice with grenadine. It's perfect for those who enjoy a smooth and creamy texture with a sour kick.
27. Pisco Sour Cocktail
Pisco Sour Cocktail is a refreshing and light drink that originated in South America. Made with Pisco, a type of brandy, and key limes, this cocktail has a distinct flavor that sets it apart from other sour cocktails. The addition of egg white and simple syrup gives it a frothy and smooth texture that is perfect for summer parties or any festive occasion.
The cocktail is garnished with a twist of lime and a dribble of bitters, adding depth to its flavor. Whether you prefer Chilean or Peruvian Pisco, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
28. Gin Sour
The Gin Sour is a classic cocktail that is perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and sour flavors. Made with only three ingredients – gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup – this cocktail is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. While some recipes call for egg whites to add foaminess, this version skips that step for an even easier preparation.
The gin sour is a great way to let the gin shine, with its subtle juniper and floral flavors. It's a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail that's perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or enjoying as an after-dinner treat. Whether you're a gin lover or just looking for a simple and delicious cocktail, the gin sour is definitely worth trying.
29. Lavender Gin Sour
The Lavender Gin Sour is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic gin sour cocktail. This cocktail features the addition of lavender to create a floral and slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the tartness of fresh lemon juice. The use of egg white in the recipe adds a silky texture and meringue-like foam on top.
To achieve the beautiful lavender color, Empress 1908 gin is recommended, but any less-juniper-y gin will work well. This cocktail is perfect for those looking for a summery and sophisticated drink that is sure to impress. Give it a try and experience the delicate balance of flavors in this delightful cocktail.
30. The Gin Sour
The Gin Sour is a classic cocktail that is perfect for those who love a lemony flavor. This cocktail has a smooth and tart taste that is not too overpowering. It is made with gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, and can be frothed up with egg whites to add a creamy texture.
The Gin Sour is a versatile drink that can be sweetened with more simple syrup or garnished with dehydrated fruit for a more intense flavor. If you are a fan of gin and citrusy flavors, the Gin Sour is definitely worth a try.
31. Aquafaba Gin Grapefruit Sour Cocktail
The Aquafaba Gin Grapefruit Sour Cocktail is a unique twist on the classic sour cocktail. Instead of using egg white for the frothy foam, this cocktail uses aquafaba, the liquid from a can of chickpeas, making it a plant-based option. The addition of grapefruit juice adds a refreshing and tangy twist to the cocktail.
This cocktail is perfect for those looking for a vegan or dairy-free option without compromising on taste or texture. The use of aquafaba not only adds a creamy texture but also reduces food waste by repurposing a commonly discarded ingredient. Overall, this cocktail is a must-try for those looking for a creative and sustainable twist on a classic cocktail.
