Everything You Need to Know About the Whiskey Sour
The whiskey sour is a masterclass in balance, offering a tug-of-war between sweet, tart, and spirituous notes. Much like its 19th-century contemporaries—the Old Fashioned and the Sazerac—this cocktail’s origins are rooted in utility; it is believed to have evolved from a scurvy-fighting remedy used by sailors. While some mistakenly associate the name with sour mash whiskey, the "sour" actually refers to the bright, tangy profile of fresh citrus. To craft a truly classic version, bourbon is the preferred spirit, providing a rich, caramel-forward foundation that stands up to the acidity of the fruit. The recipe is a study in simplicity, requiring only five ingredients: bourbon, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of aromatic bitters.
