New York Sour Cocktail Recipe: A Timeless Classic with a Modern Twist

Name: Exquisite New York Sour Cocktail
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 60 ml whiskey; 30 ml fresh lemon juice; 20 ml simple syrup; 15 ml red wine; Optional: egg white

There's something undeniably captivating about a well-crafted cocktail. Imagine yourself in a bustling New York bar, the clinking of glasses, the hum of conversation, and the anticipation of that first sip. The New York Sour is one of those drinks that not only quenches your thirst but also tells a story with every layer of flavor. I remember my first encounter with this delightful mix—its smooth whiskey base, the tang of lemon, and the surprising yet elegant float of red wine. It's a drink that feels like a conversation between old friends, familiar yet always with something new to discover.

Quick Facts

Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Alcohol Content: Approximately 18-22% ABV
Calories: Around 200-220 per serving

The History and Origin of New York Sour

The New York Sour has a storied past, much like the city it's named after. This cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, with the addition of a red wine float that adds both depth and a visual flourish. Originating in the late 19th century, it was a favorite among New York's elite, offering a sophisticated touch to the traditional whiskey cocktail. The red wine layer not only adds a beautiful color contrast but also a rich, fruity note that complements the whiskey perfectly.

Ingredients and Proportions for the Perfect New York Sour

Creating the perfect New York Sour is all about balance. Here's what you'll need:

60 ml whiskey (Bourbon or Rye)
30 ml fresh lemon juice
20 ml simple syrup
15 ml egg white (optional, for a frothy texture)
15 ml red wine (a fruity variety works best, like Shiraz or Malbec)

The magic ratio here is 2:1:1 for whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup. This ensures a harmonious blend of sweet and sour, with a touch of richness from the wine.

Step-by-Step Recipe for New York Sour

Ready to mix up this masterpiece? Follow these simple steps:

Shake it Up: shaker Combine whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white in a shaker. Shake vigorously without ice to emulsify the egg white.
Ice, Ice, Baby: Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well-chilled.
Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
The Wine Float: Carefully pour the red wine over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the cocktail.
Garnish: Add a lemon twist or a cherry for that extra flair.

Tips for Perfecting Your New York Sour

Choosing the Right Whiskey: Bourbon adds sweetness, while Rye offers a spicier kick. Choose based on your preference.
Wine Selection: Opt for a fruity red wine to enhance the cocktail's complexity.
Egg White: This is optional, but it gives the drink a smooth, frothy texture that elevates the experience.
Presentation Matters: chilled glass and fresh garnish to make your cocktail Instagram-worthy!

Variations and Alternatives

Looking to experiment? Here are some fun twists on the classic:

New York Sour with a Twist: Swap the red wine for a splash of port for a richer flavor.
Citrus Burst: Add a dash of orange bitters for an extra citrusy kick.
Herbal Infusion: Muddle fresh herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing twist.

Share Your Experience!

Now that you've mastered the art of the New York Sour, it's time to enjoy and share your creation. We'd love to hear your thoughts—did you try any variations? How did they turn out? Share your experiences in the comments below and don't forget to spread the love by sharing this recipe with your friends on social media! Cheers to crafting and enjoying classic cocktails with a personal touch! 🍹

FAQ New York Sour

Can you recommend a simple New York Sour recipe?

A simple New York Sour recipe involves mixing 2 oz of whiskey, 3/4 oz of lemon juice, and 1/2 oz of simple syrup. Shake with ice, strain into a glass, and carefully float 1/2 oz of red wine on top.

Is the New York Sour a classic cocktail?

Yes, the New York Sour is considered a classic cocktail. It is a variation of the Whiskey Sour that dates back to the late 19th century, known for its distinctive red wine float.

How do you properly float wine on a New York Sour?

To properly float wine on a New York Sour, gently pour the wine over the back of a spoon held just above the surface of the drink. This technique helps the wine to rest on top of the cocktail, creating a layered effect.

What glass is best for serving a New York Sour?

A New York Sour is traditionally served in an old-fashioned glass, which is perfect for showcasing the layered appearance of the cocktail.

Can you make a New York Sour without using a shaker?

While a shaker is ideal for mixing and chilling the ingredients, you can make a New York Sour without one by stirring the ingredients with ice in a mixing glass and then straining them into your serving glass.