Today, we’re delving into the timeless charm of the Whiskey Sour
Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavour combinations, and learned a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.
In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.
So, grab your shaker, dust off your favourite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
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The Whiskey Sour: A True Blue Classic
Few cocktails can claim the same timeless status as the Whiskey Sour. With roots stretching back to the mid-1800s, this three-part wonder — whiskey, lemon, and sugar — has remained a bartender’s essential for over 150 years.
It’s a bloody ripper of a cocktail: simple, balanced, refreshing, and adaptable. Whether you’re after a pre-dinner sharpener or a nightcap by the fire, the Whiskey Sour always delivers.
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A Bit of History
The Whiskey Sour’s story begins with sailors in the 1800s who mixed citrus into spirits to fend off scurvy and make their grog more drinkable. The first printed recipe appeared in 1862 in The Bartender’s Guide by Jerry Thomas — and from there, it spread across the globe.
Over time, bartenders refined the balance, sometimes adding egg white for a silky texture or even floating red wine on top for what’s now known as the New York Sour. Despite all the variations, the original formula remains unbeatable.
Whiskey Sour Recipe (AU Measurements)
Ingredients (Serves 1):
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60 ml bourbon or rye whiskey (bourbon = sweet & smooth, rye = bold & spicy)
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22.5 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice (never bottled!)
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15 ml simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
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Ice cubes
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Garnish: lemon twist or maraschino cherry (optional)
Method:
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Prepare your shaker – Fill with ice.
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Add ingredients – Whiskey, lemon juice, and syrup go in.
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Shake hard – 10–15 seconds for a proper chill and dilution.
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Strain & serve – Into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
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Garnish – Lemon twist, cherry, or get creative.
Bartender’s Tips for a Cracking Whiskey Sour
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Whiskey matters: Choose bourbon for sweetness or rye for spice.
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Fresh juice only: Bottled lemon juice kills the flavour.
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Sweetness balance: Adjust the syrup to suit your palate.
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Egg white option: Add one egg white and dry-shake first for froth (Boston Sour).
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Bitters boost: A dash of Angostura bitters adds depth.
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Glass prep: Chill your glass or use large ice blocks for slower dilution.
Whiskey Sour Variations
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New York Sour – Float 15 ml of dry red wine on top.
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Boston Sour – Shake with an egg white for creamy texture.
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Maple Whiskey Sour – Swap syrup for maple syrup for a richer, earthy sweetness.
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Honey Sour – Use honey syrup (2:1 honey to water) for floral notes.
Tasting Notes
A well-made Whiskey Sour is all about balance: sharp lemon acidity, silky sugar sweetness, and whiskey’s bold character in harmony. Depending on your choice of spirit, it can swing from warm and spicy to mellow and dessert-like.
Food Pairing Ideas
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Starters: Charcuterie, salted nuts, or fried calamari.
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Mains: BBQ ribs, grilled chicken, or roast pork with apple sauce.
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Desserts: Lemon tart, baked cheesecake, or spiced apple crumble.
RSA Note (Australia)
With 60 ml whiskey, this cocktail sits at around 1.9 standard drinks depending on brand and ABV. Always encourage moderation, especially given how refreshing this drink tastes.
For more RSA guidance, visit: Liquor & Gaming NSW
Final Thoughts
The Whiskey Sour has stood the test of time for good reason — it’s refreshing, simple, and endlessly customisable. Whether you prefer the smooth sweetness of bourbon, the spicy bite of rye, or one of its creative variations, this cocktail is proof that classics never go out of style.
Thanks for joining us behind the bar!
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/
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