The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail, loved by many for its perfect combination of sweet, sour and strong. This historic cocktail, dating back to the 19th century, is one of the few that has survived and thrived over the years while maintaining its popularity. It's a perfect blend of bourbon, lime juice and sugar, with a hint of egg white to add a rich, creamy foam on top. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make a balanced Whiskey Sour.
First, let's talk about the ingredients. To make a Whiskey Sour you will need:
- 60ml of bourbon
- 30ml fresh lemon juice
- 15ml simple syrup
- 1 egg white (optional)
- A slice of orange and a cherry to garnish
Bourbon is the base of the cocktail, and it is important to choose a quality bourbon. Fresh lemon juice is a must - bottled lemon juice just doesn't taste the same. Simple syrup is a mixture of equal parts water and sugar, heated until the sugar dissolves and then cooled. The egg white is optional, but it adds a velvety texture that really elevates the cocktail.
Now, let's get to the process of making the Whiskey Sour. First, add the bourbon, lime juice and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. If you are using egg whites, add them now. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 20 seconds - this helps to combine the ingredients and, if you are using egg whites, to create the foam.
After shaking, strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. Straining helps remove any bits of egg and also helps to smoothen the cocktail. Now, it's time to decorate. Add a slice of orange and a cherry to top the cocktail for a finishing touch.
So what makes a Whiskey Sour "balanced"? It's all a matter of proportions. The bourbon is strong and has a deep, rich flavor that is balanced by the tart lime juice. The simple syrup adds sweetness to balance the lemon's tartness, and the egg white (if used) adds a creamy texture that smoothes the drink. The key is to adjust the proportions to your liking - if you like your cocktails sweeter, add a little more simple syrup. If you like them more sour, add more lemon juice.
In short, making a balanced Whiskey Sour is an art. It requires choosing the right ingredients, the right mix and the right ratio of ingredients. But, with a little practice, you can create a cocktail that's perfectly balanced for your palate. So grab your cocktail shaker and start experimenting - Whiskey Sour perfection is just a shake away!
