Whiskey Sour: What’s In It And How To Make It

The Whiskey Sour is one of the most iconic cocktails worldwide.

Loved for its warming, hearty taste and sour finish, this classic cocktail gives a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. And what’s even better, it can be enjoyed alcohol-free using our Clean W.

In this guide, we'll delve into the essential ingredients that create the perfect Whiskey Sour, alongside techniques that elevate your mixology game for those wanting to play along at home.

Whether you're a seasoned bartender or new to creating non-alcoholic cocktails, mastering the Whiskey Sour is an exciting journey of flavors. Let’s explore this iconic drink.

The History of the Whiskey Sour

The Whiskey Sour, a staple in the cocktail world, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The first known recipe appeared in American bartender Jerry Thomas's 1862 book, "How to Mix Drinks," which showcased a blend of whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar. 

This concoction quickly became popular due to its simplicity and refreshing taste, making it a go-to drink for many in the States. The Whiskey Sour's balance of sweet and sour flavors made it an instant classic, and it has since evolved into various forms, including the non-alcoholic version we enjoy today.

Who Invented The Whiskey Sour?

The Whiskey Sour is often credited to Sailors who would mix spirits with citrus to stave off scurvy, a common ailment caused by vitamin C deficiency. While at sea, the Whiskey Sour was not just a delightful drink; it was a practical solution to a pressing health issue. 

By the 1860s-1900 the Whiskey Sour had become a staple in American drinking.

Whiskey And The Prohibition

From 1920 to 1933, it was illegal to manufacture or sell alcohol across the United States due to the “prohibition” movement which aimed to reduce alcohol-related social problems like domestic violence and crime. 

However, thanks to whiskey being imported by boat, and a loophole meaning that pharmacists could prescribe whiskey for medicinal purposes, the Whiskey Sour managed to evade the rules during this period and continued to be one of America’s most popular drinks.

Along with Rum, the other major spirit of the prohibition era, Whiskey was one of the easiest drinks to get onto American soil and vessels would often halt just beyond US territorial waters and offload their cargo onto smaller boats, which then delivered the alcohol to the mainland illegally, a practice known as "rum running". 

How To Create A Non-alcoholic Whiskey Sour

Creating the perfect non-alcoholic whiskey sour starts with the right ingredients.

The goal is to mimic the complex flavors of whiskey while maintaining the drink's essential sweet and sour balance. The main components include a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative like Clean W, lemon juice, simple syrup, and optional egg whites for texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the desired flavor profile.

Learn more about alcohol-free whiskey over on our blog.

Whiskey Sour Recipe

Ingredients

2oz Clean W

1oz Fresh Lemon Juice

0.5oz Sugar Syrup

1-3 Dashes of All the Bitters

½ Fresh Egg White or dash Aquafaba (chickpea water)

Slice of lemon and a Glacé cherry, to garnish

Ice

Method

Step 1

Place Clean W, lemon juice, sugar syrup, Angostura bitters and egg white into a cocktail shaker. Angostura dashes will make your cocktail look gorgeous but go easy as the flavour is strong.

Step 2

Top the cocktail shaker with ice and shake hard and fast.

Step 3

Strain into an ice-filled lowball glass or coupe. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a Glacé cherry. Toast to tomorrow!

Common Mistakes to Avoid With Whiskey Sours

When making a whiskey sour, it's easy to make a few common mistakes.

One of the most frequent errors is not using fresh ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for achieving the right balance of tartness and while bottled lemon juice is more convenient it often lacks the vibrancy and freshness needed for a high-quality cocktail.

Another common mistake is over or under-shaking the cocktail. Over-shaking can dilute the cocktail, while under-shaking can result in a poorly mixed drink that’s too short. Finding the right balance and using a timer can help ensure that your shake is just right.

Lastly, neglecting the garnish can take away from the overall experience. A simple lemon twist or cherry can add a touch of elegance.

Want to start making your own Whiskey Sours at home without the alcohol content? Try our Clean W alcohol-free whiskey to start mixing your new favorite mocktail!