Mixpert reviewed recipe
Classic Whiskey Sour
Bourbon's vanilla warmth meets fresh lemon and measured sweetness in a classic sour that is bright, smooth, and easy to make at home.
Ready in7 minMakes1 servingCalories150Total sugar11g
Legal drinking age · Enjoy responsiblyStep by step
Make it like a pro.
- 01
Add bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and optional pasteurized egg white to a shaker without ice; shake hard for 10 seconds.
- 02
Add ice and shake again for 12 to 15 seconds until very cold.
- 03
Strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass and garnish with the orange and cherry.
Easy swaps
- Omit egg white for a clean, foam-free sour.
- Use aquafaba in place of egg white for a plant-based foam.
- Reduce simple syrup to one half ounce for a tarter drink with about 3 grams less added sugar.
Mixpert tips
- Pasteurized egg white is the safest choice for an uncooked cocktail.
- Fresh lemon juice is essential; bottled juice tastes noticeably flatter.
Classic Whiskey Sour questions
Does a whiskey sour need egg white?+
No. Egg white is optional; it adds a silky texture and foam but does not define the drink's lemon, whiskey, and sugar balance.
What whiskey is best for a whiskey sour?+
A balanced bourbon around 90 proof works especially well. Rye creates a drier, spicier sour.
