The Arigato Sour cocktail is a modern classic with roots in Japanese culture. It combines the Japanese whisky with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice.
The name “Arigato” is a Japanese word that means “thank you,” and this cocktail is indeed a delicious way to show gratitude for the art of Japanese whisky. The Arigato Sour is known for its balance of sweet, smoky, and citrusy flavors.
Arigato Sour Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) Japanese Whisky: Japanese whisky serves as the heart of the cocktail, providing smoky, woody, and sometimes fruity notes.
- 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a zesty and citrusy brightness to the drink.
- 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Simple Syrup: Simple syrup is used to provide sweetness and balance to the cocktail.
- Ice Cubes: Ice is essential for chilling and diluting the cocktail.
- Egg White (Optional): An egg white can be added for a silky texture and foam, creating a traditional sour cocktail element.
Arigato Sour Recipe
Step 1: Start with a clean and chilled coupe glass.
Step 2: In the glass, optionally add an egg white for a traditional sour cocktail element. If used, dry shake the egg white (shake without ice) in a cocktail shaker for about 10 seconds until frothy.
Step 3: In the same glass, fill it with ice cubes to your desired level.
Step 4: In a separate mixing glass or cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz (60 ml) of Japanese whisky, 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) of fresh lemon juice, and 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) of simple syrup.
Step 5: Add ice to the mixing glass or shaker to chill the mixture.
Step 6: Seal the shaker or mixing glass and shake well for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring the ingredients are well-mixed.
Step 7: Strain the cocktail from the shaker or mixing glass into glass with ice. If you used an egg white, the foam should form on top.
Step 8: Optionally, garnish the drink with a lemon twist or a maraschino cherry.
If you’re not really a fan of whiskey, the Arigato Sour is the ideal cocktail to try. It leans towards the lightness and botanicals of gin cocktails, allowing the ingredients to take center stage rather than the whiskey.
